When you’re looking for methods to lower heating and cooling expenses, upgrading to a smart thermostat is an intelligent idea. These devices adjust to the temperatures you like and routine and then make an energy-efficient schedule that fits. What’s even better is that you can change and watch your settings from almost anywhere with your phone, whether you’re lying in bed or out and about. (You might even be able to receive a free smart thermostat depending on rebate programs from your utility company in Erie.)
In most instances, adding a smart home thermostat with the help of Patterson & Stirling Inc is a simple job if you have a new house. But what if your house 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 pick the correct thermostat and receive energy savings for years to come.
What Is a C Wire and What Does It Do on a Thermostat?
Most programmable thermostats need batteries. When you’re switching to a smart thermostat, you’ll find that many require a C wire, or common wire, for power. Without this wire, your new thermostat might cause your heating and cooling system to have malfunctions.
You can determine if you have a C wire by doing the following:
- Switch off power to the thermostat at the breaker.
- Take off the thermostat and check the wiring.
- If there are five or six multicolored wires, you have what you need for a smart thermostat. You might be wondering what color is the C wire on a thermostat—and the answer to that is often blue.
- If there are three or four thin multicolored wires, you’re almost there. Check the C wire isn’t tucked 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 designed for high-voltage systems. Or you may be able to use 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 best-selling brands are the Nest smart thermostat and ecobee smart thermostat. If you have two to four wires, these thermostats might be an option for you.
Nest says its thermostats are created to require not a lot of power and can often share it with your HVAC system. However, you may need to have a pro like Patterson & Stirling Inc put in a C wire with the Nest Thermostat E or Nest Learning Thermostat if you’re experiencing power problems or a battery that’s always drained.
ecobee works with 24-volt systems (ones with three to six thermostat wires) and comes with a C wire adaptor. So, you’re covered if you don’t have a thermostat C wire.
Depend on Patterson & Stirling Inc for Your Smart Thermostat Installation Needs
At Patterson & Stirling Inc, we’re always seeking ways to keep you cozier while keeping utility bills reasonable. If you want to learn more about installing a smart thermostat without a C wire, contact us at 814-308-0416. We can help you choose the right model for your home and even install new wiring if needed.