When you’re seeking approaches to lower utility expenses, getting a smart thermostat is a wise idea. 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 keep an eye on your settings from nearly anywhere with your phone, whether you’re lying in bed or on the go. (You might even be able to receive a free smart thermostat depending on rebate programs from your utility company in Streamwood.)

In many instances, adding a smart home thermostat with the support of Pure Comfort Heating and Air Conditioning is an uncomplicated process if you have a newer house. But what if your home is older or doesn’t have the proper wiring? Can you still install a smart thermostat without C wire? We’ll help you demystify the process so you can choose the recommended thermostat and get 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 discover that many require 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 find out 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 almost there. Ensure the C wire isn’t hidden inside the wall. If you can’t find one, we may be able to put in 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 run a smart thermostat with an adaptor just for high-voltage systems. Or you may be able to use 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 top brands are the Nest smart thermostat and ecobee smart thermostat. If you have two to four wires, these thermostats may be an option for your home.

Nest says its thermostats are made to run on not a lot of power and can frequently share it with your HVAC system. However, you may need to have a pro like Pure Comfort Heating and Air Conditioning add a C wire with the Nest Thermostat E or Nest Learning Thermostat if you’re having power problems or a battery that’s always drained.

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

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

At Pure Comfort Heating and Air Conditioning, we’re always on the lookout for methods to keep you comfier while keeping heating and cooling costs reasonable. If you want to learn more about switching to a smart thermostat without a C wire, reach us at 630-313-2509. We can help you choose the right model for your residence and even put in new wiring if needed.