When you’re seeking ways to reduce heating and cooling costs, getting a smart thermostat is a smart decision. These devices pick up on your favorite temperatures and routine and then create an energy-efficient schedule that fits. What’s even better is that you can adjust and watch 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 provider in Mount Pleasant.)

In many instances, installing a smart home thermostat with the assistance of Olde Towne Heating & Air is a simple task if you have a new house. But what if your house is older or doesn’t have the correct wiring? Can you still add a smart thermostat without C wire? We’ll help you navigate the process so you can select the recommended 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 learn that many require a C wire, or common wire, for power. If you don’t use this wire, your new thermostat might 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 check the wiring.
  3. If there are five or six multicolored wires, you have what’s required for a smart thermostat. You might be pondering what color is the C wire on a thermostat—and the answer to that is usually blue.
  4. If there are three or four thin multicolored wires, you’re close. Make sure the C wire isn’t rolled up inside the wall. If you can’t find one, we may be able to install 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 isn’t right and you don’t want to replace it.

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 a fit for you.

Nest says its thermostats are designed to need minimal power and can frequently share it with your home comfort system. However, you may need to have a specialist like Olde Towne Heating & Air install a C wire with the Nest Thermostat E or Nest Learning Thermostat if you’re experiencing power problems or a battery that’s frequently drained.

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

Trust Olde Towne Heating & Air for Your Smart Thermostat Installation Needs

At Olde Towne Heating & Air, we’re always on the lookout for methods to keep you more comfortable while keeping energy expenses reasonable. If you want to learn more about upgrading to a smart thermostat without a C wire, reach us at 843-485-0967. We can help you pick the right model for your residence and even put in new wiring if needed.