Installing a Programmable Thermostat

If you’re anything like me, you’re all about saving money. Saving money and energy go hand in hand. The less energy you consume, the more money you save, right? Your central heating and cooling system could easily be changed to save energy and money. You simply program the thermostat to turn off when you’re not home and turn on when you need it most! Installing a programmable thermostat in your home could save you hundreds of dollars a year. Most programmable thermostats cost very little and only take a screwdriver to install them. In this article, I’ll explain how I did it in my own home and give you a few tips and advice along the way.

Begin by selecting a good programmable thermostat from your local home improvement center, hardware store or shop online. Read the information on the package to ensure that it is compatible with your current system. Most thermostats have two or four wires. It’s a good idea to pull your thermostat apart first (disconnect the power first.) to see what kind it is and make sure you get the matching wired thermostat. Some programmable thermostats are battery powered (mine takes a 9-volt) so don’t forget the batteries.

Once you get a compatible programmable thermostat, thoroughly read all the instructions carefully before you begin the installation. Manufacturers instructions vary from model to model but they all have basically the same installation process.

Start by turning of the power to supply to the thermostat. Switch off the breakers that say heat and ac in your breaker panel. If you cant find them or you aren’t sure which breaker is which, turn them all off or turn off the main breaker to the entire house. Its no fun getting shocked and it could kill you. Remove the cover from the old thermostat. Most simply pop off by lifting up or out from the wall. Now that the cover is removed, remove the screws that hold the thermostat wire harness or panel in place.

Remove the screws on the back of the old thermostat wire harness or panel that hold the two or four wires in place. Label each wire with a piece of masking tape to remember which one goes where! Don’t mix them up or you could have some serious trouble. Discard the old thermostat. Some older thermostats have glass tubes filled with mercury. Discard these in the proper place, not your garbage can. They are hazardous to the environment and should not be put into a regular landfill.

Now attach the new programmable thermostat wire harness or panel to the wall. You’ll probably have to drill some new holes or set new screws in place. Just make sure that you level the wire harness. You don’t want a crooked programmable thermostat. Attach the wires to the harness according to the directions, level and attach the wire harness.

Attach the faceplate and insert the batteries if you need them. Check to make sure all the connections are secure and restore power to the unit. If you did it right you should have a new programmable thermostat!

You can now program the thermostat according to the directions. Set it warmer or cooler when your home and at night. Set it lower when you’re not at home to save you money and energy!