When you’re wanting methods to lower utility expenses, getting a smart thermostat is an intelligent decision. These devices learn your favorite temperatures and routine and then develop an energy-efficient schedule to match. What’s even better is that you can regulate and keep an eye on your settings from almost anywhere with your phone, whether you’re relaxing in bed or away from home. (You might even be able to receive a free smart thermostat depending on rebate programs from your utility supplier in Georgetown.)

In many instances, installing a smart home thermostat with the support of Miller Climate Control LLC is a simple process if you have a newer house. But what if your residence is older or doesn’t have the correct wiring? Can you still have a smart thermostat without C wire? We’ll help you navigate the process so you can select the proper thermostat and receive energy savings for years to come.

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

The majority of programmable thermostats run on 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 have this wire, your new thermostat may 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 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 often blue.
  4. If there are three or four thin multicolored wires, you’re close. Make sure the C wire isn’t hidden inside the wall. If you can’t find one, we may be able to add 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 install 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 put in 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 might be an option for you.

Nest says its thermostats are designed to consume not a lot of power and can frequently share it with your HVAC system. However, you may need to have a professional like Miller Climate Control LLC 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 is compatible 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.

Depend on Miller Climate Control LLC for Your Smart Thermostat Installation Needs

At Miller Climate Control LLC, we’re always seeking methods to keep you more comfortable while keeping utility bills reasonable. If you have questions about upgrading to a smart thermostat without a C wire, reach us at 512-937-2001. We can help you choose the right model for your home and even add new wiring if required.