Learn if the Nest Smart Thermostat Works with Your HVAC System

March 10, 2021

If you’re among the usual American households who pay more than $2,000 each year on energy bills, installing a smart thermostat is an excellent method to keep utility costs managed. Although the majority of residences rely on programmable thermostats, yours likely isn’t being used to the full advantage as it’s on “hold” every day.

When getting a new thermostat, the Nest smart thermostat is one of the most popular options. That’s since it learns your temperature preferences and activities, and then develops an energy-efficient schedule to match. You can also keep an eye on it and adjust it from just about anywhere with your smartphone.

For the typical home, Nest says its thermostat saves about 10-12% on heating costs and about 15% on cooling expenses. That’s about $131 to $145 saved every year, which helps the product pay for itself in less two years. And most utility providers provide 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 ensure it works with your HVAC system. This is especially true if your equipment is getting old. If it’s not, you may have troubles, like erratic furnace or air conditioner behavior. That’s why it’s important to have a pro like Franklin's Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc help you pick a new thermostat and do your smart thermostat installation.

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

Nest is Compatible with Many Heating and Cooling Systems

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

This involves heating and cooling systems that use:

  • Natural gas
  • Oil
  • Electricity

Before you get a Nest, you can put your details into the Compatibility Checker to provide a simple transition. Once you’ve double-checked it’s compatible, your Nest will work you through compatibility and wiring during the setup process.

The Nest Learning Thermostat can run with the largest types of home comfort systems, like heat pumps, furnaces and air conditioners. It also works with highly energy-efficient multistage systems, dual-fuel equipment, humidifiers and dehumidifiers, but you’ll typically need a professional like Franklin's Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc to do the complicated wiring and setup steps.

Does the Nest Need a C-Wire?

If you’ve read up on the Nest, you’ve potentially found details 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 usually still all right to use a Nest. The company says its thermostats were created to use small amounts of power. Many times, this means they can work normally without this wire.

Have a smart thermostat without a C-wire and noticing odd heating and cooling behavior? An HVAC professional like Franklin's Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc can put in a C-wire for you.

Our Professionals Make Smart Thermostat Installation Easy

Getting a new thermostat makes it a snap to manage your utility and cooling bills while keeping your home cozy. If you want to add a Nest smart thermostat to your house, Franklin's Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc can help you choose the right model for your budget and then skillfully install it. Give us a call at 662-281-1231 to begin right away!