How to Install a Programmable Thermostat

(Page 2 of 2)

April 17, 2008
By Troy Griepentrog 
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Drill holes in the drywall or plaster and tap plastic anchors (usually provided with the thermostat) into the holes so screws will hold securely. Before drilling the holes as large as recommended in the directions, use a smaller bit in case you hit a stud — the holes won’t need to be as large for the screws as for the plastic anchors, which are unnecessary if the screws will be driven into a stud.

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Before attaching the base plate, pull the wires through the hole in the base plate so they’re not pinched behind it. After you’ve secured the base plate, connect the wires to the thermostat according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Remember, if the wires are attached to screws, you’ll tighten them in a clockwise direction, so wrap the wire around the screw posts clockwise. In some instances, the wires may be connected to the base plate, and the thermostat will plug into the base plate.

If the thermostat requires batteries, install those and attach the thermostat to the base plate. Then turn on the circuit breaker (or put the fuse in) and check that the thermostat is working. If the old thermostat contains mercury, check with local waste management or recycling authorities to find the proper place to dispose of it.

Last but not least, program the thermostat according to the manufacturer’s instructions and your particular situation. If you don’t program the thermostat so your furnace or air conditioner runs less while you’re away from the house and/or sleeping, you won’t save energy or money! Doing so is easy for most models. Even if you can’t program your VCR, you can program a thermostat.

For more ways to reduce the amount of energy you use for home climate control, read Slash Your Heating Bills! 
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