| Tweet |
Leave a Comment
Installing Programmable Thermostats
|
|
Summary: |
|
How to Install a Programmable Thermostat – Thermostat Compatibility with Heating Units and the Controlled Space. Make sure your programmable thermostats are compatible with your existing heating system. The thermostats must be set up to work correctly when there are more than one programmable thermostat being used. |
| Sponsored Links |
Installing Programmable Thermostat
Electrical Question: I have just purchased 5 new programmable thermostats.
I live in Montreal and my house uses electric baseboards for heating, therefore I purchased 2-wire line voltage thermostats and they were really easy to install.
The specs for the thermostats are as follows: Model: UPM HTM611; Rating: 120V/240V AC, 60Hz; MAXIMUM LOAD: 3000W (12.5A); 3000W @ 240V or 1500W @ 120V; MINIMUM LOAD: 500W.
Now here is my problem:
I installed the thermostats and when I switched the breakers back on there were only two out of the five that seemed to work properly.
The display on the other 3 did light up and the time showed up, but the temperature and heating information remained blank.
Details that might help you determine what the problem is:
I have 2 thermostats on the ground floor and 3 upstairs.
Only one thermostat functions correctly on each story and the one that works, in both cases, is the one closest to the breaker box.
At first I thought maybe the thermostats were defective so I tried switching them around and they all worked properly when installed in the same two spots (closest to the breaker box).
I don’t know much about electrical wiring but it seems to me like they are set-up on two circuits and only the first thermostat on the circuit is getting enough juice.
What I do not understand is why my previous thermostats didn’t give me this problem.
As a reference, here are the specs for my old thermostats:
Model: Ouellet 500; Voltage: 120V to 240V, 50/60Hz; Maximum Load: 16.7 A 50/60 Hz (4000W at 240V, 3465W at 208V and 2000W at 120V); Minimum Load: 1.25 A 60 Hz (300W at 240V, 260W at 208V and 150W at 120V). 2 A 50 Hz (500W at 240V, 430W at 208V and 250W at 120V).
Any idea what the problem may be?
This electrical wiring question came from: Philippe, a Homeowner from Montreal, Canada.
Dave The Electrician’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical question Philippe.
How to Install a Programmable Thermostat
Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate.
Electrical Tools Required: Basic Electricians Pouch Hand Tools and Voltage Tester.
Estimated Time: Depends on personal level experience and ability to work with tools.
Precaution: Identify the circuit for the furnace or heat pump, turn it OFF and Tag it with a Note before working with the thermostat wiring.
Troubleshooting and Testing: Most thermostats may be tested using a Volt/Ohm Meter. The thermostat battery should be tested and replaced as needed.
Notice: Make sure to get the exact replacement thermostat.
Thermostat Compatibility with Heating Units and the Controlled Space
- Make sure your programmable thermostats are compatible with your existing heating system.
- The thermostats must be set up to work correctly when there are more than one programmable thermostat being used.
- Multiple thermostats must be compatible with each other and be configured to work together as a network.
- The electric heating system for one room must be controlled by a thermostat in the same room area being heated.
- Consult the owners manual of both the heating units and the thermostats for specific detailed instructions
This baseboard electric heater wiring information with photos and instructions will show you the direct steps to correctly wiring a baseboard wall heater.
Consult your Local Building Department about Permits and Inspections for all projects.
