When you’re seeking methods to reduce utility bills, getting a smart thermostat is an intelligent idea. These devices adjust to your favorite temperatures and routine and then create an energy-efficient schedule that matches. What’s even better is that you can regulate and monitor your settings from just about anywhere with your phone, whether you’re sitting in bed or out and about. (You might even be eligible for a free smart thermostat depending on rebate programs from your utility company in Bend.)

In most instances, hooking up a smart home thermostat with the help of Tri County Climate Control LLC is an uncomplicated task if you have a more modern 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 correct thermostat and enjoy energy savings for a long time.

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

Many programmable thermostats run on batteries. When you’re making the move to a smart thermostat, you’ll learn that many have to have 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. Switch off power to the thermostat at the breaker.
  2. Pull off the thermostat and find 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 typically blue.
  4. If there are three or four thin multicolored wires, you’re nearly there. Ensure the C wire isn’t hidden in the wall. If you can’t find one, we may be able to put in 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 operate 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 could be an option for your needs.

Nest says its thermostats are made to consume very little power and can typically share it with your heating and cooling system. However, you may need to have a pro like Tri County Climate Control LLC 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 connects with 24-volt systems (ones with three to six thermostat wires) and has a C wire adaptor. So, you’re good if you don’t have a thermostat C wire.

Depend on Tri County Climate Control LLC for Your Smart Thermostat Installation Needs

At Tri County Climate Control LLC, we’re always on the lookout for methods to keep you comfier while keeping energy bills reasonable. If you want to learn more about installing a smart thermostat without a C wire, reach us at 541-238-2797. We can help you choose the right model for your home and even add new wiring if necessary.