When you’re seeking ways to lower energy expenses, getting a smart thermostat is a wise move. These devices learn your favorite temperatures and routine and then create an energy-efficient schedule to match. What’s even better is that you can regulate and watch your settings from nearly anywhere with your phone, whether you’re relaxing in bed or on the go. (You might even be eligible for a free smart thermostat depending on rebate programs from your utility provider in Port St. Lucie.)

In most instances, adding a smart home thermostat with the assistance of Custom Air Systems Inc is an uncomplicated task 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 figure out the process so you can choose the ideal thermostat and receive energy savings for many years.

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

Many programmable thermostats run on batteries. When you’re upgrading to a smart thermostat, you’ll discover that many need 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 have glitches.

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

  1. Cut power to the thermostat at the breaker.
  2. Take 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 nearly there. Ensure the C wire isn’t hidden within 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 install a smart thermostat with an adaptor designed 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 could be a fit for your home.

Nest says its thermostats are made to run on very little power and can typically share it with your home comfort system. However, you may need to have a pro like Custom Air Systems Inc put in 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 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 Custom Air Systems Inc for Your Smart Thermostat Installation Needs

At Custom Air Systems Inc, we’re always on the lookout for methods to keep you comfier while keeping heating and cooling costs reasonable. If you have questions about switching to a smart thermostat without a C wire, contact us at 772-247-2283. We can help you select the right model for your house and even install new wiring if necessary.