Quck answer
To install a heating-only thermostat, follow these steps:
1. Turn off the power to the heating system at the circuit breaker.
2. Remove the old thermostat from the wall by unscrewing it.
3. Take note of the wires connected to the old thermostat and label them for easy identification.
4. Connect the corresponding wires to the new thermostat. Typically, you will have two wires – one for the heating system and one for the power.
5. Mount the new thermostat onto the wall and secure it with screws.
6. Turn on the power to the heating system at the circuit breaker.
7. Set the desired temperature on the new thermostat and test it to ensure it’s working properly.
By following these steps, you can easily install a heating-only thermostat in your home.
Thermostats nowadays come with various features, especially if you opt for a smart model. However, if you only need a thermostat to control your heating system, you can easily install a basic two-wire thermostat. This can be done quickly and most homeowners can do it themselves without any trouble.
Necessary Tools and Materials
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Phillips screwdriver
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Slotted screwdriver
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Wire strippers
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Level
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Pencil
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Drill
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Wall anchors (if needed)
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Batteries (if needed)
Step by Step Guide to Installing a Heating-Only Thermostat
Step 1: Removing the Old Thermostat
When removing your old thermostat, it is important to be careful and pay attention to the wires. The thermostat holds the wires in place, so when you disconnect them, they may easily fall inside the wall, making it difficult to retrieve them. Make sure to arrange the wires in a way that prevents them from falling into the wall. Alternatively, you can temporarily secure them to the wall using masking tape after removing the old thermostat.
- Turn off the electricity to the thermostat by flipping the toggle switch on the furnace disconnect or turning off the breaker for the system’s circuit in your home’s breaker box.
- Remove the cover from the thermostat and pause. You should now see two wires attached to the thermostat. Take note of the letter next to each wire terminal (usually R and W, but this may vary). It is advisable to take a picture of this setup as a reference in case you encounter any issues later on. If the wires are the same color, label each wire with the corresponding terminal letter using masking tape. Note: It is best to keep track of the wires and terminals in case they are important for the new thermostat. There may be additional unused wires coiled up inside the thermostat, so do the same with the new thermostat.
- Loosen the terminal screws and detach the wires from the terminals. Remove all mounting screws securing the thermostat base to the wall, and take the old thermostat off the wall.
- Inspect the wire ends. If you notice any corrosion or damage, trim off the damaged portions. Then, strip about 1/2 inch of insulation from each wire.
Step 2: Mounting the New Thermostat
Most thermostats consist of a body and a base plate or mounting plate. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to separate the body of the new thermostat from its base plate.
- Position the base plate against the wall and use a level to ensure that it is completely level. Additionally, verify that it is correctly oriented.
- Mark the holes for the mounting screws using a pencil.
- If there is no support behind the wall surface, drill pilot holes for the new mounting screws. In this case, install wall anchors for the screws.
- Pass the thermostat wires through the hole(s) in the base plate and attach the plate to the wall using the provided screws. Check again that the plate is level and make any necessary adjustments.
Step 3: Connect the New Thermostat’s Wiring
Attach each of the two wires to the appropriate terminal on the new thermostat base plate, ensuring that the wiring matches that of the old thermostat. (Double-check this information in the product literature.) Either wire can be connected to either terminal, but only one wire should be connected to each terminal. Securely tighten the terminal screw to hold the wire in place.
Step 4: Install the Thermostat Body
Installing the thermostat body is a straightforward process, but it is still important to read the manufacturer’s instructions beforehand. Thermostat bodies are often made of plastic, so it is crucial to avoid breaking any clips or holders. Some bodies may be pushed on directly, while others may need to be installed at an angle and then slid into place. If the thermostat has an anticipator setting, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for adjusting it.
- If necessary, insert batteries for the thermostat’s display.
- Properly align the thermostat body and snap it into place.
- Restore power to the thermostat.
- Test the thermostat to ensure that it activates and deactivates the furnace as the temperature changes. If it functions correctly, you can program the thermostat if applicable or simply set it to the desired temperature.
