When you’re looking for methods to reduce utility costs, getting a smart thermostat is an intelligent decision. These devices learn your favorite temperatures and routine and then create an energy-efficient schedule that matches. What’s even better is that you can regulate and watch your settings from almost anywhere with your phone, whether you’re lying in bed or on the go. (You might even be eligible for a free smart thermostat depending on rebate programs from your utility supplier in Tomball.)

In most instances, installing a smart home thermostat with the assistance of Premium Air Services LLC is a simple task if you have a new 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 select the ideal 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 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 could cause your heating and cooling system to have malfunctions.

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

  1. Turn off power to the thermostat at the breaker.
  2. Take 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 wondering 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 close. Ensure 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 use your new thermostat without one.
  5. If you have two thick wires, you may be able to install 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 install new wiring.

Do Nest or ecobee Need a C Wire?

Two of the top 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 require very little power and can typically share it with your heating and cooling system. However, you may need to have a pro like Premium Air Services LLC 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 constantly drained.

ecobee is compatible with 24-volt systems (ones with three to six thermostat wires) and has a C wire adaptor. So, you’re good if you don’t have a thermostat C wire.

Depend on Premium Air Services LLC for Your Smart Thermostat Installation Needs

At Premium Air Services LLC, we’re always looking for methods to keep you comfier while keeping utility expenses reasonable. If you have questions about upgrading to a smart thermostat without a C wire, give us a call at 713-364-9957. We can help you pick the right model for your home and even install new wiring if required.