| Installing a Programmable Thermostat |
From "Ask DIY"
episode ADI-511 |
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Q: I'd like to have more control over my home's heating since I'm gone most of the day. Is a programmable thermostat the solution, and can I install it myself? A: (James Young, Ask DIY Home-Improvement expert) Yes, a programmable thermostat is the ideal solution, and it's not that hard to install yourself, provided you're comfortable working with electricity. With this type of thermostat you can program it to lower the heat while you're away from home every day and to raise it again before you return; you can also program it for weekends and evenings (figure A). Start by getting a new thermostat unit and carefully reading the manufacturer's instructions. You'll have to be sure to get one that is compatible with your existing system -- the one we're using for this demonstration is a two-wire unit. In addition you'll need a screwdriver and a cordless drill. - The first and most important thing to do when you're working with electricity is to turn off the power. Tape a DO NOT TOUCH sign over the breaker that you've turned off, then close the door to the breaker box and tape a second sign on the door. You don't want anyone mistakenly turning on the power while you're working!
- Disconnect the wires to the old unit and remove the mounting screws (figure B).
- Mount the backplate of the new unit where you removed the old one (figure C). If you're lucky, the screw holes will line up and you won't have to drill new ones.
- Now you'll follow the manufacturer's instructions to attach the wires to the new unit (figure D). In our example, the instructions called for the wires to be attached to the W and RH screws. Since it's a two-wire system, it doesn't matter which wire is attached to which screw.
Tip: Thermostat wires can be very fragile, so be careful not to break them. - Snap the cover back on the unit and follow the manufacturer's instructions for programming the thermostat.
Q: Can I use electrical tape to fix a small cut in an extension cord? A: No, because there might be nicks in the wire within the sheathing, and that could be an electrical hazard. So it's best to replace the cord altogether. Q: Can you give me any pointers on using wire connectors? A: Be sure to use the right size connectors for the size and number of wires you'll be connecting. If you're connecting multiple wires, be sure to twist them together clockwise (stranded wires can be twisted together with your fingers, but solid wires are easier to twist with pliers); attach the connectors, then turn clockwise until they're on the wires tightly.
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