How simple is installing a programmable thermostat? It’s about as easy as plugging the right cables into the right terminals on your TV. Even though you can buy a programmable thermostat in dozens of different styles, sizes, brands and models, these five simple steps are basically universal for installing a programmable thermostat.

What’s So Great About a Programmable Thermostat?

Before we get to the installation, if you are using an older thermostat, you may want to see what you are missing. The great thing about a programmable thermostat is that it can automatically save you money on your energy bill and reduce your carbon footprint, and it can help make your indoor temperature perfect.

A programmable thermostat can be programmed to turn on and off at preset days and times. It can be set to a specific temperature, and some can even be controlled using a mobile device over a Wi-Fi connection. You’ll never have to empty your wallet because you forgot to turn down the heat when you went on vacation. And you can even have the A/C turn on an hour before you get home so you can enter a cool house.

Getting Started

You’ll need a drill, a screwdriver, wall anchors and batteries for your new thermostat. You may need a measuring tape and a level if your new thermostat is a different size than your old one is.

1: Turn all power off. That includes turning off your thermostat and your HVAC system by flipping the switch in your circuit box.

2: Unscrew the thermostat cover. A simple screwdriver or drill should do the trick here. Leave the wall plate with the wire connections attached to the wall; remove only the cover.

3: Locate and identify the wire connectors. Your new thermostat will likely illustrate with color codes or numbers which connector on your new thermostat goes to which terminal on your wall plate. Just in case it is not so easy, snap a picture on your phone of which wires went where before you remove the old wall plate.

4: Unplug connectors, and remove the old wall plate. Again, a simple screwdriver or drill should suffice to remove your old wall plate, and you just unsnap your wire connectors.

5: Adjust your wall anchors to fit your new wall plate. If your new thermostat is about the same size as your old one, you likely won’t have to move your anchors. But if the new one is bigger or smaller, you will need to measure your new wall plate and then adjust your wall anchors accordingly.

6: Connect your new thermostat wire connectors to the correct wall terminals. Use your manual diagram to make sure that the connections are right before you turn your unit on.

That’s it! Your new programmable thermostat is installed. Now all you have to do is put some new batteries in, fasten the thermostat cover to the plate and then turn on the power. Don’t forget to turn your HVAC unit back on at the main circuit breaker box. Follow your manual to program your unit to your liking.

Collected and published by Arms &McGregor International Realty® editorial team. Get in touched with them at [email protected]