When you’re seeking ways to decrease energy costs, getting a smart thermostat is a wise decision. 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 regulate and watch your settings from almost anywhere with your phone, whether you’re sitting in bed or on the go. (You might even be able to get a free smart thermostat depending on rebate programs from your utility company in Myrtle Beach.)

In most instances, adding a smart home thermostat with the support of Polar Air & Mechanical is an uncomplicated job if you have a new 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 figure out the process so you can select the ideal thermostat and enjoy energy savings for many years.

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

Most programmable thermostats run on batteries. When you’re making the move to a smart thermostat, you’ll find that many have to have a C wire, or common wire, for power. Without this wire, your new thermostat might cause your heating and cooling system to malfunction.

You can ascertain 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 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. Check the C wire isn’t tucked inside the wall. If you can’t find one, we may be able to add 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 install a smart thermostat with an adaptor specifically 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 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 a match for your needs.

Nest says its thermostats are created to run on very little power and can often share it with your HVAC system. However, you may need to have a pro like Polar Air & Mechanical install a C wire with the Nest Thermostat E or Nest Learning Thermostat if you’re running into power problems or a battery that’s always drained.

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

Trust Polar Air & Mechanical for Your Smart Thermostat Installation Needs

At Polar Air & Mechanical, we’re always looking for methods to keep you cozier while keeping utility expenses reasonable. If you want to know more about installing a smart thermostat without a C wire, reach us at 843-253-4874. We can help you pick the right model for your house and even put in new wiring if required.