How to Connect a Double Pole Thermostat

Quck answer

To wire a double pole thermostat, follow these steps:

1. Turn off the power to the heating system.

2. Remove the cover of the thermostat.

3. Identify the two hot wires coming from the power source.

4. Connect one hot wire to each terminal of the thermostat.

5. Connect the two hot wires to the corresponding terminals on the heating system.

6. Replace the thermostat cover.

7. Turn on the power to the heating system and test the thermostat.

Remember to always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and consult a professional if you are unsure about any step.


If you are interested in setting up or fixing a double pole thermostat, it is important to have a good understanding of the wiring involved before you start. Additionally, it is essential to have basic knowledge of what a double pole thermostat is and how it works with your HVAC system. Before beginning any electrical work, make sure you have taken necessary safety precautions to protect yourself, your equipment, and those around you.

What Is a Double Pole Thermostat?

You may be curious about what a double pole thermostat is and how it differs from single pole thermostats. Both types are typically controlled by a knob on a wall unit and regulate the heat emitted through the baseboards in your home or office. A double pole system includes an “off” setting, which can be significant for safety and energy savings. Although a single pole thermostat may seem to have an “off” setting, it actually only has a very low setting, usually around 45 degrees Fahrenheit. However, when you turn the knob on a double pole thermostat all the way counterclockwise, it is completely off. This type of system will not turn on, even if the temperature drops below 45 degrees. This is because double pole thermostats interrupt the current flow of electricity and do not maintain voltage on the heater like single pole thermostats.

Electricity Safety Basics

Before starting your project, make sure to turn off the power to the area where you will be working at the circuit breaker. Inform anyone present that you will be doing electrical work and ask them not to make any changes to the electricity by flipping the breaker or switches until you have finished. If possible, wear high-voltage rubber gloves and use insulated tools. If you are unsure about what needs to be done, it is better to seek professional help rather than proceeding on your own.

Double Pole Thermostat Wiring Diagram

If you are planning to work on your double pole thermostat or install baseboard heaters, you will first need to turn off the power and follow basic electrical safety procedures. Then, remove the thermostat from the wall. It is typically attached to the wall and connected to the wires coming from inside the wall using wire nuts. Since you are dealing with a double pole thermostat, there should be four wires. Two of these wires are live wires and two are load wires. If you are unable to determine which wires are live just by looking at them, you can use a voltage detector before disconnecting the wires from the old thermostat. Generally, line wires are black and load wires are red. If you choose to use this method, exercise extreme caution and avoid touching the wires with your bare hands.

Once you have identified the live and load wires, you can mark them to keep track. Then, remove the old thermostat box.

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to install the new thermostat box. Pull the live and load wires through and connect them with wire nuts at the appropriate junction points. Use a voltage meter to test the connections and ensure they are wired correctly. Again, avoid touching the wires with your bare hands when the power is turned on. Once you have reattached the double pole thermostat to the wall, you can turn the power back on.

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