Installing a Programmable Thermostat

A programmable thermostat gives you better control over heating and cooling your home.

Read the instructions with the new unit BEFORE starting the installation. Manufacturer's installation instructions might differ slightly for each model. Here are the basic steps:

1. Turn off the power supply to the thermostat.



2. Remove the old thermostat, including the wall plate. Older thermostats with glass tubes contain mercury. Use caution when handling and check with your local recycling company for disposal instructions.



3. Your thermostat will have two or four wires depending on whether your heating and cooling systems are separate or one unit. Label the wires, noting where they were attached on the old thermostat. Secure them (tie into a loop or tape them to the wall) to keep them from falling back into the wall.




4. Because of the variety of manufacturers, your heating and cooling system may not match your thermostat instructions exactly. If you have any doubt about the electrical connections, contact the manufacturer.

   Install the new wall plate, if there is one. You may need to drill new holes for the new model. Use a level to mark where the holes are to be drilled. Use drywall anchors, if necessary.



5. Connect the wires as directed by the instructions that come with your particular unit. Follow these instructions carefully. Install batteries, if needed.



6. Mount the unit to the wallplate.



7. Restore power and program the new thermostat as directed.

Tips and Notes A programmable thermostat is a temperature-sensitive device that lets you choose the temperature to be maintained in one or several rooms of your home during different times of the day. ENERGY STAR labeled programmable thermostats are easy to use and can significantly improve heating and cooling comfort in your home by keeping room temperature within 2 degrees F of your desired temperature. They are designed to help save money on your utility bill and reduce energy waste. When used properly, an ENERGY STAR programmable thermostat can cut your heating and cooling bills by 20-30 percent annually.