When you’re seeking methods to lower utility expenses, getting a smart thermostat is a smart move. These devices adjust to your favorite temperatures and routine and then develop an energy-efficient schedule that matches. What’s even better is that you can change and monitor your settings from almost anywhere with your phone, whether you’re sitting in bed or out and about. (You might even be eligible for a free smart thermostat depending on rebate programs from your utility company in Savage.)

In many instances, installing a smart home thermostat with the support of Gopher Heating and Air Conditioning is a simple task if you have a new house. But what if your residence is older or doesn’t have the correct wiring? Can you still install a smart thermostat without C wire? We’ll help you navigate the process so you can choose the proper 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 run on batteries. When you’re upgrading to a smart thermostat, you’ll discover 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 determine if you have a C wire by doing the following:

  1. Switch 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’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. Make sure the C wire isn’t rolled up in the wall. If you can’t find one, we may be able to put in 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 run a smart thermostat with an adaptor specifically 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 won’t work and you don’t want to install new wiring.

Do Nest or ecobee Need a C Wire?

Two of the most popular brands are the Nest smart thermostat and ecobee smart thermostat. If you have two to four wires, these thermostats may work for your needs.

Nest says its thermostats are created to require minimal power and can frequently share it with your HVAC system. However, you may need to have a professional like Gopher Heating and Air Conditioning install 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 works with 24-volt systems (ones with three to six thermostat wires) and includes a C wire adaptor. So, you’re taken care of if you don’t have a thermostat C wire.

Depend on Gopher Heating and Air Conditioning for Your Smart Thermostat Installation Needs

At Gopher Heating and Air Conditioning, we’re always looking for methods to keep you cozier while keeping utility costs reasonable. If you have questions about upgrading to a smart thermostat without a C wire, contact us at 952-373-0377. We can help you choose the right model for your house and even install new wiring if needed.