There are a couple of reasons you may want to replace your thermostat. If your old thermostat stops working, you may need to replace it, but check first to see if it just needs a new battery. If you have an old manual thermostat, replacing it with a programmable thermostat is a good energy-saving step. Fortunately, learning how to install a new thermostat in your home is simple. You can do it yourself for most systems, but if you encounter problems, or if you’re not confident in your ability to do the job right, get your trusted local HVAC contractor to do it for you.
Here is a basic description of how to install a new thermostat in your home:
- Purchase a programmable thermostat that is compatible with your cooling and heating systems.
- Turn off the power to your HVAC system. Put a strip of tape across the circuit breaker to keep anyone from turning the power back on while you’re working on the circuit.
- Remove the face from your existing thermostat. Mark the wires and draw a diagram so you can remember how the thermostat was wired. Disconnect the wires and wrap them around a pencil so they don’t fall down inside the wall.
- Remove the existing base plate. Place the new base plate in position and mark the spots on the wall for the new screw holes. Drill holes and install drywall anchors, pull wires through the base plate, then screw the base plate into the wall.
- Using your wiring diagram and the new thermostat instructions, connect the wires to the appropriate terminals on the back of the new thermostat.
- Seal the hole where the wires come through the wall with tape, putty or foam insulation. This will keep cold air inside the wall from interfering with the thermostat operation.
- Snap the thermostat onto the base plate.
- Turn the power back on and test the system for correct operation.
Please contact us at James Lane if you need help selecting a new thermostat or if you have questions about how to install a new thermostat in your home. We have helped homeowners in the Wichita Falls area since 1957.
