When you’re wanting methods to lower energy bills, getting a smart thermostat is a smart move. These devices adjust to your favorite temperatures and routine and then develop an energy-efficient schedule to match. What’s even better is that you can regulate and monitor 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 receive a free smart thermostat depending on rebate programs from your utility supplier in Columbia.)
In many instances, installing a smart home thermostat with the help of Watts Electric & AC is a simple job if you have a newer house. But what if your house is older or doesn’t have the correct wiring? Can you still add a smart thermostat without C wire? We’ll help you figure out the process so you can select the right 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 need a C wire, or common wire, for power. If you don’t use this wire, your new thermostat might cause your heating and cooling system to have malfunctions.
You can find out if you have a C wire by doing the following:
- Switch off power to the thermostat at the breaker.
- Remove the thermostat and look at the wiring.
- If there are five or six multicolored wires, you have what’s needed for a smart thermostat. You might be pondering 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 almost there. Check the C wire isn’t hidden in 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 install a smart thermostat with an adaptor designed for high-voltage systems. Or you may be able to operate a battery-powered smart thermostat, like the Lux Geo Wi-Fi Thermostat, if your wiring is incompatible and you don’t want to replace it.
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 could be an option for you.
Nest says its thermostats are created to run on not a lot of power and can frequently share it with your home comfort system. However, you may need to have a specialist like Watts Electric & AC 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 frequently 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.
Depend on Watts Electric & AC for Your Smart Thermostat Installation Needs
At Watts Electric & AC, we’re always on the lookout for methods to keep you more comfortable while keeping heating and cooling expenses reasonable. If you want to learn more about installing a smart thermostat without a C wire, reach us at 601-736-7362. We can help you choose the right model for your home and even add new wiring if needed.