Wi-Fi Thermostat Installation

What is the Difference Between a Smart Thermostat and a WiFi Thermostat?

All smart thermostats are WiFi thermostats, but not all WiFi thermostats are smart. Smart thermostats not only connect to your phone to track and adjust temperature settings but also can learn your family’s habits and adjust the thermostat according to your setting patterns. They might have proximity sensors, geofencing, and other high-tech enhancements to help ensure ideal heating and cooling in your home. Learn more about how to install a smart thermostat.

A thermostat with WiFi is not a learning thermostat; however, it can still be a great choice for your home. The best WiFi thermostat is the one that works with your budget, household, and lifestyle.

How to Install a WiFi Thermostat

Complete the WiFi thermostat installation process in no time by following these steps: 

1. Remove your old thermostat. Turn off your HVAC system from the breaker panel. This will prevent accidental shocks or other electrical issues. Once the power to the system is off, it’s time to remove the faceplate of the old thermostat. After removing any hidden screws, pop the faceplate off. Be sure to take a picture of the wiring behind the faceplate so you can see which wires are supposed to connect to which terminals. Remove the thermostat wires from the backplate and take off the backplate itself by removing the screws attaching it to the wall.

2. Add a C-wire. If your old system already has a C-wire, or common wire, feel free to skip this step. If your old thermostat doesn’t have a C-wire, either add one yourself, use the adapter sold with your WiFi thermostat, install an “add-a-wire” adapter, or hire a professional to install a C-wire to your system.

3. Install the new backplate. With a pencil, mark the wall indicating where the backplate screws are in your new thermostat’s backplate. Pull the wires through the backplate, then screw it into the wall. 

4. Connect the wires. Connect the thermostat wires to the proper terminals, using the picture you took in Step 1 as a reference. 

5. Install the new faceplate. Install the new WiFi thermostat faceplate on top of the backplate, then turn the breaker back on. The thermostat should start booting up.

6. Connect your thermostat WiFi. The thermostat should offer a series of prompts to connect to your WiFi. Once it’s connected, finish setting it up with the mobile app.

While these instructions generally work for installing most WiFi thermostats, you should always follow the instructions provided with your new easy-to-install WiFi thermostat. 

Once installation is complete, learn how to set a thermostat to save money on your heating and cooling bills.

Final Thoughts

Maintaining the items in your home is important to protect your investment—and your HVAC system is no exception. To safeguard the systems and appliances in your home, be sure to sign up for a home warranty plan from American Home Shield®. While we don’t cover WiFi thermostats specifically, we do cover parts and components of A/C and heating units. 

Our home warranty plans provide coverage for up to 23 major systems and appliances you use every day to keep your home running smoothly. To learn more about the items we cover, view our coverage details page. See the plan contract for coverage details, including service fees, limitations and exclusions. Charges for non-covered items may apply.   

American Home Shield® home warranty plans are some of the best ways to protect your budget and stay comfortable year-round. Take a look at our pricing and plans.