Want to Install the Nest Smart Thermostat? Figure Out if Its Compatible with Your HVAC System First

March 10, 2021

If you’re among the usual American households who shell out more than $2,000 each year on heating and cooling expenses, getting a smart thermostat is an excellent way to keep heating and cooling costs managed. Although most homes use programmable thermostats, yours likely isn’t being made the most of since it’s on “hold” permanently.

When installing a new thermostat, the Nest smart thermostat is one of the best sellers. That’s since it picks up on your temperature preferences and activities, and then creates an energy-efficient schedule to match. You can also check and lower it from just about anywhere with your smartphone.

For the typical home, Nest says its thermostat saves about 10-12% on heating costs and about 15% on cooling bills. That’s about $131 to $145 saved each year, which helps it pay for itself in under two years. And the majority of utility businesses provide rebate programs that help you purchase a smart thermostat for free or close to it.

When you’re installing a smart home thermostat, you’ll want to make sure it will work with your HVAC system. This is especially essential if your equipment is aging. If it’s not, you may have issues, like erratic furnace or air conditioner behavior. That’s why it’s critical to have a expert like US Air Heating and Cooling help you choose a new thermostat and take care of your smart thermostat installation.

Here’s how to determine if the Nest will work with your HVAC system.

Nest Runs with Most Heating and Cooling Systems

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

This covers heating and cooling systems powered by:

  • Natural gas
  • Oil
  • Electricity

Before you get a Nest, you can put your details into the Compatibility Checker to make sure you have a smooth transition. Once you’ve checked it’s compatible, your Nest will lead you through compatibility and wiring when you set it up.

The Nest Learning Thermostat can run with the widest range of home comfort equipment, like heat pumps, furnaces and air conditioners. It also works with extremely energy-efficient multistage systems, dual-fuel equipment, humidifiers and dehumidifiers, but you’ll typically need a professional like US Air Heating and Cooling to complete the in-depth wiring and setup process.

Does the Nest Need a C-Wire?

If you’ve read up on the Nest, you’ve probably run into info about the C-wire, or common wire. This wire runs your smart thermostat when it can’t get ample power from the other wires.

If you don’t have a C-wire, it’s probably still ok to use a Nest. The company says its thermostats were made to use small amounts of power. Many times, this means they can run properly without this wire.

Have a smart thermostat without a C-wire and noticing strange heating and cooling behavior? An HVAC specialist like US Air Heating and Cooling can put in a C-wire for you.

Our Professionals Make Smart Thermostat Installation Simple

Installing a new thermostat makes it simple to keep track of your energy and cooling expenses while keeping your home comfy. If you’re considering adding a Nest smart thermostat to your residence, US Air Heating and Cooling can help you select the best model for your budget and then expertly install it. Reach us at 803-220-0761 to begin today!