When you’re looking for ways to lower energy expenses, getting a smart thermostat is an intelligent idea. These devices learn your favorite temperatures and routine and then make an energy-efficient schedule that fits. What’s even better is that you can change and keep an eye on your settings from nearly anywhere with your phone, whether you’re lying in bed or away from home. (You might even be able to receive a free smart thermostat depending on rebate programs from your utility provider in Derby.)

In most instances, adding a smart home thermostat with the support of Giordanos Heating and Air Conditioning is an uncomplicated job if you have a more modern house. But what if your home is older or doesn’t have the correct wiring? Can you still add a smart thermostat without C wire? We’ll help you figure out the process so you can choose the correct thermostat and receive energy savings for a long time.

What Is a C Wire and What Does It Do on a Thermostat?

Most programmable thermostats use batteries. When you’re making the move to a smart thermostat, you’ll discover that many need a C wire, or common wire, for power. If you don’t have this wire, your new thermostat may cause your heating and cooling system to malfunction.

You can ascertain if you have a C wire by doing the following:

  1. Switch off power to the thermostat at the breaker.
  2. Take off the thermostat and check the wiring.
  3. If there are five or six multicolored wires, you have what’s required for a smart thermostat. You might be wondering what color is the C wire on a thermostat—and the answer to that is usually blue.
  4. If there are three or four thin multicolored wires, you’re almost there. Ensure the C wire isn’t tucked inside the wall. If you can’t find one, we may be able to install one for you or you may be able to use your new thermostat without one.
  5. If you have two thick wires, you may be able to install a smart thermostat with an adaptor designed for high-voltage systems. Or you may be able to operate a battery-powered smart thermostat, like the Lux Geo Wi-Fi Thermostat, if your wiring won’t work and you don’t want to put in new wiring.

Do Nest or ecobee Need a C Wire?

Two of the most popular brands are the Nest smart thermostat and ecobee smart thermostat. If you have two to four wires, these thermostats may be a fit for you.

Nest says its thermostats are designed to require minimal power and can typically share it with your home comfort system. However, you may need to have a pro like Giordanos Heating and Air Conditioning install a C wire with the Nest Thermostat E or Nest Learning Thermostat if you’re running into power problems or a battery that’s constantly drained.

ecobee is compatible with 24-volt systems (ones with three to six thermostat wires) and has a C wire adaptor. So, you’re good if you don’t have a thermostat C wire.

Rely on Giordanos Heating and Air Conditioning for Your Smart Thermostat Installation Needs

At Giordanos Heating and Air Conditioning, we’re always seeking methods to keep you more comfortable while keeping utility expenses reasonable. If you have questions about installing a smart thermostat without a C wire, give us a call at 203-772-8319. We can help you pick the right model for your residence and even add new wiring if needed.