You have just purchased a smart thermostat for your Terre Haute, IN home. You have heard how simple smart thermostats are to use and how they can help you improve the comfort of your home and reduce your energy use. But now that you have the unit in your hand and are looking at wiring diagrams, thinking about circuit breakers, and making electrical connections, it feels overwhelming.
Installing a smart thermometer does not have to be a burden. In fact, it’s something that homeowners can do themselves. However, if you prefer to have a professional do the work for you, contact us at Medcalf Heating & Cooling. We would be happy to help you get your smart thermometer up and working.
Things to Check Before Beginning the Installation Process
Smart thermometers have been designed to work with a wide range of HVAC systems. Before purchasing a unit, use a compatibility checklist to ensure that the model you want to purchase works with your home wiring.
Timing is essential when installing your new thermostat. Don’t try to install a new thermostat when it’s five below zero outside or when you’re planning to have people stay at your house the next day. Just in case something goes wrong, you don’t want to be left in a lurch. Also, don’t be quick about throwing away the old thermostat. Make sure you have everything connected well and that it functions first. If not, reconnect the old thermostat.
The last thing you want is to damage your HVAC system. It will cost more to replace your HVAC system than to pay to install your thermostat. If the project feels like too much for you to do, don’t hesitate to contact our team at Medcalf Heating & Cooling.
Turn Off Your HVAC System
Before disconnecting your old thermostat, turn the power off to your HVAC system at the breaker panel. Depending on how your system is wired, there may be multiple breakers. By disconnecting the power, you eliminate the chance of shorting electrical components as you are working with your thermostat’s wires.
If your thermostat has a battery backup, it might appear to be connected to your system even though it’s not. An excellent way to test it is to turn on your thermostat and see if your HVAC system activates.
Access the Low Voltage Wiring of Your Old Thermostat
Disconnect the faceplate from your old thermostat to expose the low voltage wiring. The faceplate should come off with a little force, or you might need to find a hidden screw on the bottom or top of the unit to remove the faceplate.
Take a photo of how your unit is wired to have a source of reference to help you as you connect the thermostat. Your thermostat might have stickers with codes on the terminals.
Take Off the Back Plate
Disconnect thermostat wires from the backplate. Screws may connect wires, or there might be small tabs you need to push to release the wires. Unscrew the backplate from the wall.
Depending on your model, you may need to install a common wire to power your thermostat. If the idea of adding additional wiring feels scary, feel free to contact Medcalf Heating & Cooling. Our technicians will be happy to help you with your thermostat installation.
Connect the New Backplate
Use the new backplate to help determine where to drill holes for the backplate screws. Ensure that the thermostat wires are through the backplate before adhering it to the wall.
Connect Wires to the New Thermostat
Now that the backplate is attached to the wall, connect its wires to the proper terminals. Use the photograph of the old backplate to ensure that the correct wires are connected to the appropriate terminals.
Connect the New Faceplate
Connecting a new faceplate should be straightforward. If the faceplate doesn’t attach quickly, don’t force it. Make sure that the wires are not in the way. Now, turn the breaker on to your HVAC system. Your thermostat should power up.
Connect your thermostat to your home’s Wi-Fi following the prompts on the screen. You may need to use a smartphone application to complete this step.
Bringing Comfort to Your Terre Haute, IN, Home
At Medcalf Heating & Cooling, we understand how important your HVAC system is to your overall home comfort. During the summers, temperatures can exceed 80 degrees. They can go well below 34 degrees in the fall and winter. Our family-owned business is home to NATE-certified technicians with over a decade of experience working in the HVAC industry. We are proud to offer residential and commercial heating, cooling, refrigeration, water heater, boiler repair, installation, and maintenance services to Terre Haute residents.
Are you ready to feel comfortable in your home again? Contact Medcalf Heating & Cooling. We look forward to working with you.
