How to Install a Smart Thermostat?

Now that you've just purchased a smart thermostat, it's time to set it up. Be reassured by the idea of wiring as well as circuit breakers. Consumer Reports will assist, so the procedure shouldn't be frightening.

Ensure the thermostat is compatible with the system, including wiring, before starting the project. To ensure that their products function with the wiring, some manufacturers, such as Ecobee, Google Nest, and Honeywell Home, provide compatibility tools and checks online.

Replace Your Smart Thermostat: How to Do It

Here are some of the steps regarding how to replace your smart thermostat:-

Deactivate Your HVAC System

Turn off your complete HVAC system at the breaker panel before removing your old thermostat. (Your system may contain several breakers.) While dealing with wires at the thermostat, it'll also turn off the power to your thermostat and prevent you from unintentionally shorting out electrical parts of the system.

Pop the Faceplate Off

To access the low-voltage wiring and backplate of the old thermostat, you must first remove the faceplate. With just a little work, it ought to pop off. If that doesn't, don't force it; you may need to replace one or more hidden screws (look underneath). Contact your HVAC technician or plumber if there's not.

Get Rid of the Backplate

The thermostat wires should now be taken out of the backplate. With certain models, the cables may need to be released by unscrewing tiny screws holding them in place or by pressing small tabs with a pen. Use a screwdriver to remove the screws securing the backplate to a wall.

Add a C-Wire

You can skip this step if the system has a C-wire installed. If not, add a second wire to act as the common wire that supplies electricity to the thermostat. We advise utilising a C-wire because it is the simplest method for powering a smart thermostat.

Use the New Backplate as a Template

Mark the wall with a pencil and the backplate of the new thermostat. Drill holes for the backplate screws just at marks with a tiny bit. (If needed, install wall anchors.) When fastening the backplate to the wall, ensure the thermostat wires are inserted through the backplate.

Replacing the Wires

The thermostat wires should be joined to the appropriate terminals once the backplate has been firmly fastened. This step must be simple if you mark your wires using stickers. If you didn't, you could match the cables to the terminals by looking at the wiring picture on the old backplate.

Put in the New Faceplate

When you install a smart thermostat on the wire, you must be able to attach the new thermostat's faceplate to the backplate. Don't try to force it even if it won't attach; wires might be in the way. Before attempting to reattach the faceplate, tuck them back into the wall.

WiFi-Enable the Thermostat

After turning it on, your new smart thermostat will likely guide you through several prompts to establish its accompanying smartphone app or link it to WiFi. This step can vary depending on the manufacturer and model, so pay strict attention to the instructions.

You'll start saving money when your new smart thermostat is functional.