Few home repair projects provide yearly energy savings like installing a replacement thermostat. Replace your old thermostat with a programmable or Wi-Fi thermostat to save money on your energy bills as the seasons change. This tutorial will show you how to change a thermostat or install one for the first time. To ensure the table is perfectly aligned, you’ll learn how to measure, wire, and set the thermostat.
- Turn off the HVAC system’s power.
The first step in learning how to install a Ac Thermostat Installation is to switch off the electricity to your existing thermostat. Turn off the power and nIt should have a clearly labeled circuit breaker.
- Existing Thermostat should be removed.
- Using a screwdriver, remove the old thermostat cover plate.
- Remove the thermostat body by unscrewing the thermostat mounting screws.
- Wires should be separated and labeled.
- Use masking tape to label the wires so you can remember where they connect to the screw terminals. Because there is no universal color code, use letter codes to identify the wires.
- Disconnect the wires if necessary.
- To keep the wires from slipping into the wall cavity, tape them to the wall or wrap them around a pencil.
- If necessary, install a C-Wire.
Smart thermostats can have up to five thermostat connections, with a “common wire” or C-wire always included. The C-wire allows power to flow continuously to the thermostat without having to turn on or off other appliances.
You’ll already have a C-wire attached to the C terminal if you’re replacing a smart thermostat with another smart thermostat. You’ll need to locate and identify the C-wire, or install a new C-wire, if you’re upgrading to a smart thermostat.
- Even if your old thermostat didn’t use a C-wire, an unused C-wire could be inserted behind the backplate of your replacement thermostat. Examine your HVAC control board for a wire connected to the C terminal. The HVAC control board is typically found near the heating and cooling system or inside a furnace access panel. The other end of the C-wire should be in the wall, and you may use it for your newly installed smart thermostat if it has one.
- If you don’t have a C-wire, you can use a “add-a-wire” kit or a power extender kit. Some smart thermostat versions may include this kit as well as other thermostat components. Install this kit at the HVAC control board according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Another alternative is to power your thermostat using a 24-volt converter that includes a C-wire and plugs into a nearby outlet.
- You can also install a C-wire yourself and run it through the walls to your thermostat if your HVAC control board has an empty C terminal.
- If you’re unsure, hire an electrician to install a C-wire for you.
- Wire and Install the New Thermostat Base
Whether you’re learning how to install a basic non-programmable thermostat or a smart thermostat, the following step is almost always the same. Of course, if there are any minor discrepancies between units, it’s always crucial to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.
- Loosen the mounting screws on the existing thermostat base and remove it.
- Separate the front and base of the redesigned thermostat. Start by laying the foundation.
- Thread the low-voltage wires through the replacement thermostat base’s required aperture.
- If your replacement thermostat isn’t self-leveling, make sure it’s properly aligned with a small level.
- Using the screws that came with the thermostat, attach the thermostat base to the wall.
- Connect the low-voltage wires on the newly installed thermostat base to the proper screw terminals.
- Consult the installation diagram in the wireless thermostat’s owner’s manual if your connections don’t match.
- Tighten any slack wire connections and inspect the wires and sheathing for damage.
- The thermostat body must contain the battery or batteries (if applicable). Verify that the battery size and polarity are correct.
- Install the thermostat and re-establish power
By gently putting the excess wire back into the wall aperture and covering the hole with a fire-resistant material, you may mount the thermostat base. Fiberglass insulation is excellent for preventing draughts from interfering with the operation of the thermostat.
- Use the screws that came with your thermostat to secure the control unit to the base.
- To clear the programme memory, restore power to your heating/cooling system and then click the reset button.
- Follow the manufacturer’s directions when programming the thermostat.
- Check to see if both the heater and the air conditioner are working properly.
Author Bio:- Michael Cabral
Michael is a marketing manager at EZ Heat and Air. He loves writing about innovative and hybrid HVAC installation tips. His articles help readers to have valuable insights into the importance of duct cleaning, water heater maintenance, and repair, optimum working of the thermostat, Mini-split and heat pump installation in Orange County. Read articles for more information on keeping your HVAC system in tip-top condition and leading a hassle-free life.
