When you’re looking for methods to lower utility expenses, getting a smart thermostat is a wise move. These devices adjust to your favorite temperatures and routine and then develop an energy-efficient schedule that fits. What’s even better is that you can regulate and watch your settings from nearly anywhere with your phone, whether you’re sitting in bed or away from home. (You might even be able to receive a free smart thermostat depending on rebate programs from your utility supplier in Hudsonville.)
In many instances, adding a smart home thermostat with the assistance of West Michigan Heating & Air Conditioning Services is a straightforward process if you have a more modern house. But what if your residence is older or doesn’t have the proper wiring? Can you still add a smart thermostat without C wire? We’ll help you figure out the process so you can pick the ideal thermostat and get energy savings for many years.
What Is a C Wire and What Does It Do on a Thermostat?
Many programmable thermostats use batteries. When you’re making the move to a smart thermostat, you’ll learn that many need a C wire, or common wire, for power. Without this wire, your new thermostat might cause your heating and cooling system to malfunction.
You can determine if you have a C wire by doing the following:
- Cut 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 required for a smart thermostat. You might be pondering 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 inside the wall. If you can’t find one, we may be able to install one for you or you may be able to operate your new thermostat without one.
- If you have two thick wires, you may be able to run a smart thermostat with an adaptor just 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 won’t work 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 might be a match for you.
Nest says its thermostats are designed to need very little power and can frequently share it with your home comfort system. However, you may need to have a professional like West Michigan Heating & Air Conditioning Services install 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 is compatible 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.
Rely on West Michigan Heating & Air Conditioning Services for Your Smart Thermostat Installation Needs
At West Michigan Heating & Air Conditioning Services, we’re always on the lookout for methods to keep you cozier while keeping utility bills reasonable. If you have questions about upgrading to a smart thermostat without a C wire, reach us at (616) 319-1436. We can help you select the right model for your residence and even add new wiring if necessary.
