When you’re seeking methods to reduce utility bills, getting a smart thermostat is a wise decision. These devices learn your favorite temperatures and routine and then create 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 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 company in Lawrence.)
In many instances, hooking up a smart home thermostat with the help of Scott Temperature is an uncomplicated process if you have a more modern 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 navigate the process so you can select the recommended 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 upgrading to a smart thermostat, you’ll find 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 have malfunctions.
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 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 nearly there. Ensure the C wire isn’t rolled up inside the wall. If you can’t find one, we may be able to install one for you or you may be able to run your new thermostat without one.
- If you have two thick wires, you may be able to install a smart thermostat with an adaptor just 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 isn’t right and you don’t want to install 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 an option for you.
Nest says its thermostats are made to need very little power and can frequently share it with your HVAC system. However, you may need to have a pro like Scott Temperature add a C wire with the Nest Thermostat E or Nest Learning Thermostat if you’re running into power problems or a battery that’s always drained.
ecobee connects with 24-volt systems (ones with three to six thermostat wires) and has a C wire adaptor. So, you’re covered if you don’t have a thermostat C wire.
Depend on Scott Temperature for Your Smart Thermostat Installation Needs
At Scott Temperature, we’re always seeking methods to keep you more comfortable while keeping heating and cooling bills reasonable. If you have questions about switching to a smart thermostat without a C wire, give us a call at 785-269-0465. We can help you choose the right model for your house and even install new wiring if needed.