In many cases, installing a basic thermostat can be a DIY project for those with some electrical knowledge and experience. However, if the installation involves wiring or electrical systems beyond your expertise, it's best to leave it to a licensed electrician to ensure safety and proper functionality.
DIY thermostat installation is sometimes a practical option for a basic manual thermostat, typically requiring only fundamental electrical knowledge. Such installations are suitable for homeowners with some DIY experience and confident handling simple wiring tasks.
In most cases, installing a new thermostat is a relatively simple do-it-yourself project that can result in improved comfort and convenience and one that can help you save energy.
The cost to install a thermostat is $182 on average, but you could pay between $113 and $264. Thermostats play an important role in our daily lives, cooling us down during the sweltering summer heat and keeping us warm and cozy during winter. While the average cost to install a thermostat is $182, pricing can vary.
Installing the thermostat yourself is an easy task that will typically take about an hour from start to finish. Additionally, many available models are low cost — some are under $25 — and the savings gained from the thermostat will help the device pay for itself in a relatively short amount of time.
In many cases, installing a basic thermostat can be a DIY project for those with some electrical knowledge and experience. However, if the installation involves wiring or electrical systems beyond your expertise, it's best to leave it to a licensed electrician to ensure safety and proper functionality.
When installing your thermostat, the main thing you want to avoid is placing it in an area with extreme temperatures. For example, don't place it above air vents, near windows and doors, or in any spot that receives direct sunlight.
HVAC repair pros are a good option if you're looking for someone to replace a thermostat. In fact, you may find that many thermostat installers work with an HVAC company. Plus, by hiring an HVAC expert to replace your thermostat, you can also book an HVAC inspection at the same time.
If you're moving your thermostat to a different room, however, you'll likely need the aid of a professional HVAC technician.
The duration to remove and replace a thermostat can vary depending on several factors. On average, the process takes around 1 to 2 hours.
Before installing a new thermostat, you must check your home's compatibility. Houses are wired in two ways, line voltage, and low voltage, and you'll want to buy a thermostat that will operate with your particular heating and cooling system. Therefore, choosing the right digital thermostats is important.
A bad thermostat can be detected when your AC or furnace is not turning on, your HVAC systems are not turning off, the thermostat not responding, your HVAC system is short-cycling, the room temperature not matching the temperature displayed on the thermostat, and the programmed setting resetting themselves.
Look at Voltage Requirements
Most homes use either low-voltage systems or high-voltage systems. Low voltage systems are the most common for residential HVAC units. If your system is powered by low voltage (usually 24V), you'll need a thermostat that works with low voltage systems.
Potential consequences of improper installation could include: Electric shock. Blowing a circuit breaker. Damaging the thermostat unit, the electrical system or even the AC/furnace unit itself.
Most of the time, you'll need the help of a qualified electrician or gas engineer to install your smart thermostat safely.
Know Your Equipment & Your Wiring
Not all thermostats are compatible with existing HVAC systems, especially smart thermostats! Some thermostats work only with furnaces and air conditioners, for example. Others may be designed to monitor heat pumps or multiple-stage heating and cooling systems.
If you're unsure, or uncomfortable with electrical work, it's always a good idea to consult a professional electrician to ensure the installation is done correctly. If you don't have a C-wire installed, we recommend hiring a professional to install a smart thermostat.
While replacing a thermostat may appear straightforward, it involves electrical work and compatibility considerations for equipment that you should consider. Hiring a professional electrician or HVAC technician is the safest and most reliable option, ensuring correct thermostat replacement.
Written by HomeAdvisor. The average thermostat replacement cost runs $182, or between $113 and $264.
Most homeowners can easily install a Google Nest thermostat on their own in just 20-30 minutes by following the Nest app's step-by-step instructions.
Sure thing! Installation typically takes 45 minutes or less. Simply follow the instructions included in the ecobee mobile app, or in the manual that was included in the box with your ecobee.
Moving a Thermostat: If the required wiring exists at the desired location, moving a thermostat may cost as little as $65. However, moving the unit can entail installing new wiring and cutting and patching drywall, so the project can cost up to $450.
Ideal Thermostat Placement
The best place for your thermostat is on an interior wall, away from all the areas we previously discussed (direct sunlight, air vents, your kitchen, hallways, windows and doors). Ideally, it should be placed toward the center of your home.
You'll also want to avoid putting lamps or TVs near your thermostat, since they release heat that could impact the device settings, according to the US Department of Energy.