When you’re seeking approaches to decrease energy expenses, getting a smart thermostat is an intelligent idea. These devices adjust to your favorite temperatures and routine and then create an energy-efficient schedule that matches. What’s even better is that you can adjust and watch your settings from just about anywhere with your phone, whether you’re sitting in bed or on the go. (You might even be able to receive a free smart thermostat depending on rebate programs from your utility company in Wisconsin Rapids.)

In many instances, adding a smart home thermostat with the support of Rapids Sheet Metal Works Inc is an uncomplicated process if you have a newer house. But what if your residence is older or doesn’t have the proper wiring? Can you still have a smart thermostat without C wire? We’ll help you navigate the process so you can choose the correct thermostat and receive energy savings for many years.

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

Most programmable thermostats use batteries. When you’re making the move 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 may cause your heating and cooling system to have malfunctions.

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

  1. Cut power to the thermostat at the breaker.
  2. Pull off the thermostat and find the wiring.
  3. If there are five or six multicolored wires, you have what you need for a smart thermostat. You might be thinking what color is the C wire on a thermostat—and the answer to that is often blue.
  4. If there are three or four thin multicolored wires, you’re close. Check the C wire isn’t tucked 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.
  5. 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 operate a battery-powered smart thermostat, like the Lux Geo Wi-Fi Thermostat, if your wiring is incompatible and you don’t want to put in 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 might be a match for your home.

Nest says its thermostats are created to need not a lot of power and can frequently share it with your heating and cooling system. However, you may need to have a professional like Rapids Sheet Metal Works Inc add 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 includes a C wire adaptor. So, you’re covered if you don’t have a thermostat C wire.

Trust Rapids Sheet Metal Works Inc for Your Smart Thermostat Installation Needs

At Rapids Sheet Metal Works Inc, we’re always on the lookout for methods to keep you cozier while keeping heating and cooling bills reasonable. If you want to learn more about upgrading to a smart thermostat without a C wire, reach us at 715-301-0256. We can help you pick the right model for your home and even put in new wiring if necessary.