When you’re wanting ways to lower energy costs, getting a smart thermostat is a smart move. These devices pick up on your favorite temperatures and routine and then develop an energy-efficient schedule that fits. What’s even better is that you can adjust and watch your settings from nearly 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 Columbia.)
In many instances, adding a smart home thermostat with the support of Watts Electric & AC is an uncomplicated task if you have a newer house. But what if your house is older or doesn’t have the proper wiring? Can you still install a smart thermostat without C wire? We’ll help you navigate the process so you can select the right thermostat and receive energy savings for a long time.
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 discover that many require a C wire, or common wire, for power. Without this wire, your new thermostat may cause your heating and cooling system to have malfunctions.
You can determine if you have a C wire by doing the following:
- Turn off power to the thermostat at the breaker.
- Remove the thermostat and find 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 nearly there. Ensure the C wire isn’t rolled up within 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 use 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 is incompatible and you don’t want to install 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 may be an option for your needs.
Nest says its thermostats are designed to need minimal power and can often share it with your heating and cooling system. However, you may need to have a professional like Watts Electric & AC 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 works 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 Watts Electric & AC for Your Smart Thermostat Installation Needs
At Watts Electric & AC, we’re always seeking methods to keep you comfier while keeping energy expenses reasonable. If you have questions about upgrading to a smart thermostat without a C wire, reach us at 601-736-7362. We can help you choose the right model for your house and even install new wiring if required.