When you’re wanting methods to decrease utility expenses, getting a smart thermostat is a smart idea. These devices learn 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 just about anywhere with your phone, whether you’re relaxing in bed or on the go. (You might even be able to get a free smart thermostat depending on rebate programs from your utility provider in Corpus Christi.)

In most instances, installing a smart home thermostat with the support of Total Assurance AC & Heating is a straightforward process if you have a more modern house. But what if your house is older or doesn’t have the right wiring? Can you still add a smart thermostat without C wire? We’ll help you figure out the process so you can choose the ideal thermostat and get energy savings for years to come.

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

Many programmable thermostats need batteries. When you’re upgrading to a smart thermostat, you’ll learn that many have to have 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 malfunction.

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

  1. Turn off power to the thermostat at the breaker.
  2. Pull off the thermostat and look at the wiring.
  3. If there are five or six multicolored wires, you have what’s needed for a smart thermostat. You might be wondering 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. Ensure 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 run 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 isn’t right 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 fit for your needs.

Nest says its thermostats are designed to require not a lot of power and can often share it with your heating and cooling system. However, you may need to have a pro like Total Assurance AC & Heating add a C wire with the Nest Thermostat E or Nest Learning Thermostat if you’re having power problems or a battery that’s constantly drained.

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

Depend on Total Assurance AC & Heating for Your Smart Thermostat Installation Needs

At Total Assurance AC & Heating, we’re always looking for methods to keep you comfier while keeping energy bills reasonable. If you have questions about upgrading to a smart thermostat without a C wire, give us a call at 361-217-7080. We can help you pick the right model for your home and even add new wiring if required.