When you’re looking for methods to reduce utility bills, getting a smart thermostat is a wise move. These devices learn your favorite temperatures and routine and then make an energy-efficient schedule to match. What’s even better is that you can change and watch your settings from almost anywhere with your phone, whether you’re lying in bed or out and about. (You might even be able to receive a free smart thermostat depending on rebate programs from your utility company in York.)

In many instances, installing a smart home thermostat with the assistance of Strine's is a straightforward job if you have a more modern house. But what if your home 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 pick the proper thermostat and enjoy energy savings for years to come.

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

The majority of 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. If you don’t have this wire, your new thermostat could cause your heating and cooling system to have malfunctions.

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

  1. Turn off power to the thermostat at the breaker.
  2. Remove the thermostat and find the wiring.
  3. If there are five or six multicolored wires, you have what you need for a smart thermostat. You might be thinking what color is the C wire on a thermostat—and the answer to that is typically blue.
  4. If there are three or four thin multicolored wires, you’re nearly there. Ensure the C wire isn’t rolled up in the wall. If you can’t find one, we may be able to install 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 specifically 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 isn’t right 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 could be an option for your needs.

Nest says its thermostats are created to run on very little power and can frequently share it with your home comfort system. However, you may need to have a professional like Strine's 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 connects 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 Strine's for Your Smart Thermostat Installation Needs

At Strine's, we’re always seeking methods to keep you more comfortable while keeping heating and cooling bills reasonable. If you have questions about upgrading to a smart thermostat without a C wire, reach us at 717-383-4479. We can help you pick the right model for your home and even put in new wiring if necessary.