When you’re wanting ways to lower utility expenses, getting a smart thermostat is an intelligent idea. These devices learn the temperatures you like and routine and then create an energy-efficient schedule to match. What’s even better is that you can adjust and watch your settings from nearly anywhere with your phone, whether you’re sitting in bed or on the go. (You might even be eligible for a free smart thermostat depending on rebate programs from your utility provider in Manassas.)
In most instances, hooking up a smart home thermostat with the help of Woody's Sudden Service Inc is a simple job if you have a newer house. But what if your home is older or doesn’t have the correct wiring? Can you still have a smart thermostat without C wire? We’ll help you figure out the process so you can select the right thermostat and receive energy savings for years to come.
What Is a C Wire and What Does It Do on a Thermostat?
Most programmable thermostats need batteries. When you’re upgrading to a smart thermostat, you’ll find that many have to have a C wire, or common wire, for power. Without this wire, your new thermostat might cause your heating and cooling system to have malfunctions.
You can ascertain if you have a C wire by doing the following:
- Cut power to the thermostat at the breaker.
- Remove 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 thinking 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 close. Ensure the C wire isn’t tucked in 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 install 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 could be an option for you.
Nest says its thermostats are made to need very little power and can often share it with your heating and cooling system. However, you may need to have a professional like Woody's Sudden Service Inc put in a C wire with the Nest Thermostat E or Nest Learning Thermostat if you’re experiencing power problems or a battery that’s always drained.
ecobee works 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.
Trust Woody's Sudden Service Inc for Your Smart Thermostat Installation Needs
At Woody's Sudden Service Inc, we’re always seeking methods to keep you cozier while keeping heating and cooling expenses inexpensive. If you have questions about installing a smart thermostat without a C wire, give us a call at 703-278-2036. We can help you select the right model for your residence and even install new wiring if necessary.