How to Install a Programmable Thermostat

By Troy Griepentrog
Published on April 11, 2008
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ISTOCKPHOTO/FRED DIMMICK
Programmable thermostats are a great investment. In the first year after installation, you can reduce your energy bills by more than you paid for the thermostat.

The Earth Day celebrations are over, and you’ve got an eco-hangover (just a little too much green for one day). What to do? Ease into your next green project: Install a programmable thermostat.

Replacing your old thermostat with a programmable model can reduce the amount of energy used to heat and cool your home by as much as 15 percent (if you’re not already adjusting your thermostat manually a few times each day). They’re super easy to install, and Energy Star ratings can help select the most effective models. Many programmable thermostats cost less than $90, so you’re likely to recoup your investment quickly in lower energy bills.

Before choosing a new thermostat, check how many wires are attached to your current one. The wires should be smaller than wires running to electrical boxes (like those of outlets and light switches). If they’re heavier wires, they carry higher voltage — so you’ll want to hire an electrician for the job. This is usually the case only if you have electric baseboard heat.

The Installation Process

Turn off the power to the furnace at the circuit box (or remove the fuse).

Remove the old thermostat, being careful to label each wire with a piece of masking tape as you remove it. There should be a letter near the place each wire was attached. Tape the wires to the wall so you don’t lose them inside the wall.

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