When you’re wanting approaches to reduce heating and cooling costs, getting a smart thermostat is a smart idea. 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 keep an eye on your settings from just about 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 provider in Mobile.)

In many instances, adding a smart home thermostat with the assistance of Farnell Heating & Air Conditioning Inc is an uncomplicated task if you have a new house. But what if your residence is older or doesn’t have the proper wiring? Can you still install a smart thermostat without C wire? We’ll help you demystify the process so you can choose the correct thermostat and enjoy energy savings for a long time.

What Is a C Wire and What Does It Do on a Thermostat?

Many programmable thermostats need batteries. When you’re upgrading to a smart thermostat, you’ll find that many require a C wire, or common wire, for power. If you don’t have this wire, your new thermostat may cause your heating and cooling system to malfunction.

You can determine if you have a C wire by doing the following:

  1. Turn off power to the thermostat at the breaker.
  2. Remove the thermostat and check the wiring.
  3. 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.
  4. If there are three or four thin multicolored wires, you’re almost there. Check the C wire isn’t hidden inside 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.
  5. If you have two thick wires, you may be able to install 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 is incompatible 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 designed to run on minimal power and can typically share it with your heating and cooling system. However, you may need to have a pro like Farnell Heating & Air Conditioning Inc put in a C wire with the Nest Thermostat E or Nest Learning Thermostat if you’re having power problems or a battery that’s always 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.

Trust Farnell Heating & Air Conditioning Inc for Your Smart Thermostat Installation Needs

At Farnell Heating & Air Conditioning Inc, we’re always seeking methods to keep you cozier while keeping energy bills reasonable. If you have questions about switching to a smart thermostat without a C wire, give us a call at 251-471-2674. We can help you pick the right model for your house and even add new wiring if needed.