If you’re one of the average American households who spends more than $2,000 every year on heating and cooling expenses, installing a smart thermostat is a good method to keep heating and cooling expenses managed. Although manyhomes use programmable thermostats, yours likely isn’t being used to the full advantage as it’s on “hold” every day.

When installing a new thermostat, the Nest smart thermostat is one of the top sellers. That’s because it adjusts to your temperature preferences and activities, and then develops an energy-efficient schedule to match. You can also monitor and change it from almost anywhere with your smartphone.

For the typical home, Nest says its thermostat saves about 10-12% on heating costs and about 15% on cooling costs. That’s about $131 to $145 saved annually, which helps it pay for itself quicker than two years. And most utility businesses have rebate programs that help you install a smart thermostat for free or close to it.

When you’re installing a smart home thermostat, you’ll want to be sure it will work with your HVAC system. This is especially essential if your equipment is getting old. If it’s not, you may run into issues, like odd furnace or air conditioner behavior. That’s why it’s critical to have a expert like Lanz Furnace and Fireplace help you select a new thermostat and do your smart thermostat installation.

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

Nest Runs with Many Heating and Cooling Systems

The good news is that Nest created its thermostat to work with many different 24-volt systems, including aging ones.

This involves heating and cooling systems that use:

  • Natural gas
  • Oil
  • Electricity

Before you get a Nest, you can use the Compatibility Checker to ensure a simple transition. Once you’ve double-checked it will work, your Nest will lead you through compatibility and wiring when you set it up.

The Nest Learning Thermostat is compatible with the widest range of home comfort equipment, like heat pumps, furnaces and air conditioners. It also operates with very energy-efficient multistage systems, dual-fuel equipment, humidifiers and dehumidifiers, but you’ll likely need a pro like Lanz Furnace and Fireplace to handle the detailed wiring and setup process.

Does the Nest Have to Have a C-Wire?

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

If you don’t have a C-wire, it’s probably still ok to install a Nest. The company says its thermostats were designed to require not much power. In most cases, this means they can work correctly without this wire.

Have a smart thermostat without a C-wire and noticing strange heating and cooling behavior? An HVAC pro like Lanz Furnace and Fireplace can install a C-wire for you.

Our Pros Make Smart Thermostat Installation Easy

Upgrading your thermostat makes it easier to keep track of your heating and cooling expenses while keeping your {house|residences|home cozy. If you want to add a Nest smart thermostat to your residence, Lanz Furnace and Fireplace can help you find the ideal model for your needs and then professionally install it. Give us a call at 608-291-3606 to start right away!