When you’re looking for methods to decrease energy bills, getting a smart thermostat is a smart decision. These devices pick up on your favorite temperatures and routine and then create an energy-efficient schedule that fits. What’s even better is that you can adjust and monitor your settings from just about anywhere with your phone, whether you’re relaxing in bed or on the go. (You might even be able to get a free smart thermostat depending on rebate programs from your utility provider in Marshalltown.)
In most instances, hooking up a smart home thermostat with the assistance of Kapaun & Brown is a straightforward process if you have a more modern house. But what if your house is older or doesn’t have the proper wiring? Can you still have a smart thermostat without C wire? We’ll help you figure out the process so you can choose the proper thermostat and enjoy energy savings for years to come.
What Is a C Wire and What Does It Do on a Thermostat?
Most programmable thermostats use batteries. When you’re switching to a smart thermostat, you’ll learn that many need 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 find out if you have a C wire by doing the following:
- Switch off 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 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 close. Make sure the C wire isn’t rolled up within the wall. If you can’t find one, we may be able to put in 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 use a smart thermostat with an adaptor specifically 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 won’t work and you don’t want to install new wiring.
Do Nest or ecobee Need a C Wire?
Two of the most popular brands are the Nest smart thermostat and ecobee smart thermostat. If you have two to four wires, these thermostats might work for you.
Nest says its thermostats are made to require very little power and can typically share it with your heating and cooling system. However, you may need to have a professional like Kapaun & Brown 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 connects with 24-volt systems (ones with three to six thermostat wires) and comes with a C wire adaptor. So, you’re good if you don’t have a thermostat C wire.
Rely on Kapaun & Brown for Your Smart Thermostat Installation Needs
At Kapaun & Brown, we’re always looking for methods to keep you comfier while keeping utility expenses reasonable. If you want to learn more about upgrading to a smart thermostat without a C wire, give us a call at 641-812-2028. We can help you pick the right model for your house and even add new wiring if necessary.