Does it matter where thermostat is located?

Author: Annamae Lesch  |  Last update: Wednesday, May 28, 2025

So, where should you place the thermostat in your home? Ideally, you should place your thermostat in a room that you use frequently so your thermostat is reading accurate temperatures. You should also place your thermostat on an interior wall that is unobstructed by household items.

Where is the best location for a thermostat?

For best results, you want the thermostat centrally located. This is a part of the home that you frequently use rather than tucked away in a hall. The thermostat should be positioned at a height of about 52-60 inches. Since heat rises, if the thermostat is higher than that, the readings will tend to be too warm.

Can I change the location of my thermostat?

If your thermostat isn't in the right place, it is possible to move it to a new location. However, the amount of work that takes depends on how far away you plan to move it. The reason is that there's a set of control wires running from your HVAC system to the wall where the thermostat resides.

How much does it cost to relocate a thermostat?

come and move a thermostat it will cost between $200-$400 depending on how long the new wire has to be. The normal labor rates vary per region so it is between $75-$90 dollars per hour and it will probably take all of 2 hours to pull a new wire and rewire and mount the thermostat.

How far should a thermostat be from the heater?

Better yet, install your thermostat at least 1 stud away from the heater. Moving a thermostat out of the same wall cavity as a heater will help performance.

Where should a thermostat be? Should a thermostat be in the hallway?

Does it matter where you put your thermostat?

Ideally, you should place your thermostat in a room that you use frequently so your thermostat is reading accurate temperatures. You should also place your thermostat on an interior wall that is unobstructed by household items.

Where should heating thermostat be positioned?

Middle or centre! So the middle of your home will give you the most accurate average reading since it will measure the centrally circulating air. Heat rises, so if your thermostat is very high up the wall it will give you an inflated reading and tell your boiler to cool the house down.

How difficult is it to relocate a thermostat?

Fortunately, in many cases, moving a thermostat is a DIY job that requires a few basic tools. In fact, if you're moving the thermostat to an adjacent wall or replacing the interface, the project may last just an hour or less.

Who to hire to move a thermostat?

If however, your desired new thermostat location resides far away in another room distant from existing infrastructure, strongly consider hiring an HVAC technician to safely perform the complex wiring rerouting involved.

How many hours does it take to replace a thermostat?

Installation typically takes about 1 hour.

Is it safe to change a thermostat yourself?

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.

Who do you call to move a thermostat?

When it comes to thermostat installation and anything else HVAC-related whether it be installations, repairs, or maintenance, it's always best to call a reputable HVAC company like this one here to make sure that the installation would be done properly by a professional and experienced HVAC technician.

Does it matter how a thermostat is installed?

When installing a thermostat, ensure that you place it in the recommended places. Avoid areas near air vents, heating appliances, open doors, and windows. This will help you maintain the required temperatures around your home. Additionally, it will help you save on energy bills.

Can you put a thermostat anywhere?

Whether you're moving a thermostat to another room or just moving it to another wall, there are a few main things you need to consider: Try to install your thermostat near the middle of the room or zone that it is controlling. Avoid putting your thermostat near windows, doors, or on exterior walls.

How important is thermostat placement?

Proper thermostat placement is crucial not only for your home's overall comfort but also for energy use. A mislocated thermostat can gradually increase your monthly utility bills and create additional wear and tear for your HVAC unit.

Should a thermostat be in a hallway?

Your thermostat should be in an area that your family spends a good amount of time in, and we're guessing your hallway isn't one of those places. This, combined with the fact that hallways can restrict airflow, means that a thermostat in a hallway won't get an accurate reading of your home's temperature.

How do I change the location of my thermostat?

A Step-by-Step Guide
  1. Turn Off the Thermostat. Prior to moving a thermostat in a house, ensure to switch off the power at the circuit breaker box to avoid any electrical mishaps. ...
  2. Remove the Thermostat. ...
  3. Prepare the New Location. ...
  4. Route the Wires to the New Location. ...
  5. Reinstall Your Thermostat. ...
  6. Turn on the Power.

How much does it cost to move a thermostat?

Moving a thermostat costs $65 to $450, depending on if there is wiring already in place at the new location. If wiring already exists, it's just a matter of patching up the hole at its previous location and affixing the thermostat to its new home.

Who do I call to change a thermostat in my house?

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.

Where should my thermostat be located?

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.

How much labor does it take to replace a thermostat?

The average cost for a Thermostat Replacement is between $512 and $550. Labor costs are estimated between $129 and $163 while parts are priced between $382 and $387. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your unique location. Related repairs may also be needed.

Is thermostat housing important?

Although it's possible to drive with a damaged thermostat housing, it's highly recommended that you don't. Ignoring a coolant leak is flirting with disaster, and cooking your engine can ruin your whole day.

Where is the best place to put a thermostat in the winter?

We recommend installing a thermostat on interior walls, at an optimal height from the floor. Thermostats should not be installed near windows or in direct sunlight and they should be positioned away from heat sources such as radiators, lamps, ovens or other electronic devices that may produce heat.

Should the thermostat be in the coldest room?

We would not advise putting the thermostat in the coldest room as this would not be a true reflection of the temperature of the rest of the house. You want an average reading for it to work efficiently so placing it in the coldest part of the house would be an extreme cold air temperature zone to avoid.

Where is the best place to put a thermostat upstairs?

The rule of the thumb to remember is that hot air normally rises and cool air sinks. So for your two-story home, your upstairs will feel warmer than the downstairs. For this reason, it is best to install your thermostat in the most central location.

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