Want to Install the Nest Smart Thermostat? Figure Out if It Will Work with Your HVAC System

March 10, 2021

If you’re amid the average American households who pay more than $2,000 every year on energy bills, installing a smart thermostat is an excellent way to keep utility expenses low. Although many houses use programmable thermostats, chances are yours isn’t being made the most of as it’s on “hold” all the time.

When upgrading your thermostat, the Nest smart thermostat is one of the top sellers. That’s since it picks up on your temperature preferences and routine, and then makes an energy-efficient schedule to match. You can also keep an eye on it and lower it from just about anywhere with your smartphone.

On average, Nest says its thermostat saves about 10-12% on heating costs and about 15% on cooling costs. That’s about $131 to $145 saved every year, which helps the product pay for itself quicker than two years. And many utility providers offer rebate programs that help you purchase a smart thermostat for free or close to it.

When you’re upgrading to a smart home thermostat, you’ll want to be sure it’s compatible with your HVAC system. This is especially important if your equipment is aging. If it’s not, you could run into issues, like weird furnace or air conditioner behavior. That’s why it’s essential to have a professional like B & G HVAC help you choose a new thermostat and do your smart thermostat installation.

Here’s how to find out if the Nest can run with your HVAC system.

Nest Works with Most Heating and Cooling Systems

The good news is that Nest created its thermostat to operate with many different 24-volt systems, including aging ones.

This involves heating and cooling systems powered by:

  • Natural gas
  • Oil
  • Electricity

Before you buy a Nest, you can put your details into the Compatibility Checker to provide a smooth transition. Once you’ve double-checked it’s a fit, your Nest will guide you through compatibility and wiring when you set it up.

The Nest Learning Thermostat can run with the widest number of home comfort equipment, including heat pumps, furnaces and air conditioners. It also works with highly energy-efficient multistage systems, dual-fuel equipment, humidifiers and dehumidifiers, but you’ll often need a specialist like B & G HVAC to do the detailed wiring and setup process.

Does the Nest Have to Have a C-Wire?

If you’ve done research on the Nest, you’ve likely run into information about the C-wire, or common wire. This wire powers your smart thermostat when it can’t draw ample power from the other wires.

If you don’t have a C-wire, it’s likely still all right to use a Nest. The company says its thermostats were made to consume little power. Many times, this means they can work correctly without this wire.

Have a smart thermostat without a C-wire and noticing strange heating and cooling behavior? An HVAC professional like B & G HVAC can add a C-wire for you.

Our Experts Make Smart Thermostat Installation Quick

Installing a new thermostat makes it easier to manage your heating and cooling bills while keeping your house comfortable. If you’re considering adding a Nest smart thermostat to your residence, B & G HVAC can help you choose the best model for your budget and then skillfully install it. Give us a call at 641-316-3360 to begin now!