When you’re wanting methods to reduce energy bills, getting a smart thermostat is a smart decision. These devices learn 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 sitting in bed or away from home. (You might even be eligible for a free smart thermostat depending on rebate programs from your utility supplier in West Jefferson.)

In many instances, installing a smart home thermostat with the support of West Jefferson Plumbing and Heating, Inc. is an uncomplicated task if you have a newer house. But what if your residence is older or doesn’t have the proper wiring? Can you still add a smart thermostat without C wire? We’ll help you navigate the process so you can pick the ideal 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 run on 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 have this wire, your new thermostat may cause your heating and cooling system to have glitches.

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

  1. Cut 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 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. Make sure the C wire isn’t hidden inside the wall. If you can’t find one, we may be able to put in one for you or you may be able to run 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 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 may be a match for your home.

Nest says its thermostats are designed to require minimal power and can typically share it with your home comfort system. However, you may need to have a professional like West Jefferson Plumbing and Heating, 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 good if you don’t have a thermostat C wire.

Depend on West Jefferson Plumbing and Heating, Inc. for Your Smart Thermostat Installation Needs

At West Jefferson Plumbing and Heating, Inc., we’re always on the lookout for methods to keep you cozier while keeping energy expenses reasonable. If you want to know more about upgrading to a smart thermostat without a C wire, contact us at 614-879-9091. We can help you choose the right model for your home and even add new wiring if required.