When you’re looking for approaches to reduce energy expenses, getting a smart thermostat is an intelligent decision. These devices pick up on your favorite temperatures and routine and then make an energy-efficient schedule to match. What’s even better is that you can regulate and keep an eye on your settings from just about anywhere with your phone, whether you’re sitting in bed or out and about. (You might even be able to get a free smart thermostat depending on rebate programs from your utility provider in Derby.)
In many instances, adding a smart home thermostat with the help of Giordanos Heating and Air Conditioning is a straightforward process if you have a newer house. But what if your home is older or doesn’t have the correct wiring? Can you still have a smart thermostat without C wire? We’ll help you figure out the process so you can select the proper thermostat and receive energy savings for many years.
What Is a C Wire and What Does It Do on a Thermostat?
Most programmable thermostats need batteries. When you’re making the move to a smart thermostat, you’ll learn that many require a C wire, or common wire, for power. Without this wire, your new thermostat could cause your heating and cooling system to have glitches.
You can find out if you have a C wire by doing the following:
- Switch off power to the thermostat at the breaker.
- Pull off the thermostat and check the wiring.
- If there are five or six multicolored wires, you have what’s needed 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.
- If there are three or four thin multicolored wires, you’re close. Ensure the C wire isn’t hidden within 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.
- If you have two thick wires, you may be able to use a smart thermostat with an adaptor specifically for high-voltage systems. Or you may be able to install a battery-powered smart thermostat, like the Lux Geo Wi-Fi Thermostat, if your wiring is incompatible and you don’t want to put in new wiring.
Do Nest or ecobee Need a C Wire?
Two of the top brands are the Nest smart thermostat and ecobee smart thermostat. If you have two to four wires, these thermostats may be a match for you.
Nest says its thermostats are made to consume very little power and can often share it with your heating and cooling system. However, you may need to have a professional like Giordanos Heating and Air Conditioning add a C wire with the Nest Thermostat E or Nest Learning Thermostat if you’re having power problems or a battery that’s constantly drained.
ecobee connects with 24-volt systems (ones with three to six thermostat wires) and includes a C wire adaptor. So, you’re taken care of if you don’t have a thermostat C wire.
Trust Giordanos Heating and Air Conditioning for Your Smart Thermostat Installation Needs
At Giordanos Heating and Air Conditioning, we’re always on the lookout for methods to keep you comfier while keeping heating and cooling costs reasonable. If you want to know more about installing a smart thermostat without a C wire, give us a call at 203-772-8319. We can help you select the right model for your residence and even put in new wiring if needed.