When you’re seeking ways to decrease utility expenses, getting a smart thermostat is an intelligent decision. These devices learn your temperature preferences and routine and then make an energy-efficient schedule to match. What’s even better is that you can adjust 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 Manassas.)
In most instances, installing a smart home thermostat with the support of Air-Right Energy Design, Inc. is an uncomplicated process if you have a newer residence. But what if your residence is older or doesn’t have the correct wiring? Can you still install a smart thermostat without C wire? We’ll help you figure out the process so you can choose the ideal thermostat and get 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 switching to a smart thermostat, you’ll find that many require a C wire, or common wire, for power. If you don’t use this wire, your new thermostat could cause your heating and cooling system to malfunction.
You can find out if you have a C wire by doing the following:
- Cut power to the thermostat at the breaker.
- Pull off 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 typically blue.
- If there are three or four thin multicolored wires, you’re almost there. Make sure the C wire isn’t rolled up within the wall. If you can’t find one, we may be able to add 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 designed 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 isn’t right and you don’t want to replace it.
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 could be an option for you.
Nest says its thermostats are created to run on minimal power and can frequently share it with your home comfort system. However, you may need to have a specialist like Air-Right Energy Design, Inc. install 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.
Rely on Air-Right Energy Design, Inc. for Your Smart Thermostat Installation Needs
At Air-Right Energy Design, Inc., we’re always looking for ways to keep you cozier while keeping energy bills reasonable. If you want to learn more about installing a smart thermostat without a C wire, give us a call at 703-260-1148. We can help you select the right model for your residence and even install new wiring if necessary.