If you’re one of the average American households who pay more than $2,000 each year on utility expenses, getting a smart thermostat is a fantastic way to keep utility costs under control. Although manyhomes have programmable thermostats, yours likely isn’t being made the most of since it’s on “hold” all the time.

When upgrading your thermostat, the Nest smart thermostat is one of the most popular options. That’s due to the fact it learns your temperature preferences and schedule, and then develops an energy-efficient schedule to match. You can also keep an eye on it and lower it from almost anywhere with your smartphone.

On average, Nest says its thermostat saves about 10-12% on heating costs and about 15% on cooling expenses. That’s about $131 to $145 saved each year, which helps it pay for itself in less two years. And most utility providers have rebate programs that help you purchase a smart thermostat for free or close to it.

When you’re getting a smart home thermostat, you’ll want to ensure it will work with your HVAC system. This is especially essential if your equipment is aging. If it’s not, you may have troubles, like weird furnace or air conditioner behavior. That’s why it’s critical to have a specialist like Phelps Heating & Cooling, Inc. help you choose a new thermostat and do your smart thermostat installation.

Here’s how to determine if the Nest is compatible with your HVAC system.

Nest Works with Most Heating and Cooling Systems

The good news is that Nest designed its thermostat to run with many different 24-volt systems, including old ones.

This involves heating and cooling systems that use:

  • Natural gas
  • Oil
  • Electricity

Before you get a Nest, you can put your details into the Compatibility Checker to ensure a simple transition. Once you’ve checked it will work, your Nest will lead you through compatibility and wiring when you start using it.

The Nest Learning Thermostat is compatible with the widest number of home comfort equipment, including heat pumps, furnaces and air conditioners. It also works with very energy-efficient multistage systems, dual-fuel equipment, humidifiers and dehumidifiers, but you’ll often need a professional like Phelps Heating & Cooling, Inc. to complete the complicated wiring and setup procedures.

Does the Nest Need a C-Wire?

If you’ve done research on the Nest, you’ve likely found information about the C-wire, or common wire. This wire powers your smart thermostat when it can’t draw ample power from the other wires.

If you don’t have a C-wire, it’s probably still all right to get a Nest. The company says its thermostats were made to require small amounts of power. Most of the time, this means they can work normally without this wire.

Have a smart thermostat without a C-wire and experiencing erratic heating and cooling behavior? An HVAC specialist like Phelps Heating & Cooling, Inc. can install a C-wire for you.

Our Pros Make Smart Thermostat Installation Easy

Installing a new thermostat makes it a snap to keep track of your utility and cooling costs while keeping your {house|residences|home cozy. If you want to add a Nest smart thermostat to your house, Phelps Heating & Cooling, Inc. can help you select the right model for your home and then expertly install it. Reach us at 270-358-3167 to start right away!