Simple guide to installing your ecobee thermostat

💡 Need to know

• Simple installation: Ecobee thermostats are easy to install without professional help.
• Power extender kit included: The thermostat package includes a power extender kit (PEK), which you'll need if you don't have a C wire.
• Safety first: Shut down power to your heating and cooling system at the breaker box before beginning the installation.

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You recently bought an ecobee® thermostat, and you're looking forward to improved home comfort and (hopefully) cheaper electric bills. But you're not sure about the ecobee thermostat installation process. Is it as easy as it looks?

Asurion Experts keep your home devices running smoothly. Use our ecobee installation guide for a simple, headache-free install when switching to a smart thermostat from a traditional one.

Prepare your workspace and labels

Ecobee ranks among the best smart thermostats for your home. That's due to its energy-saving features, intuitive app, and compatibility with most HVAC systems. So, if you're the proud owner of a new ecobee thermostat, you have a lot to look forward to.

Before getting started with the installation process, you'll need a few basic tools by your side, including:

• Drill with a 3/16" bit
• Philips screwdriver
• Pencil
• Hammer

Ecobee recommends downloading its app from the Apple App Store® or the Google Play™ store. The app walks you through the installation process. It includes features to set up the Wi-Fi connection and temperature controls.

Within your ecobee package, you'll find a thermostat, a backplate, two screws, drywall plugs, wire labels, a trim plate, and a PEK. The trim plate is optional. It covers blemishes and helps the thermostat sit flush with the wall. You'll need the PEK if your system doesn't include a dedicated C-wire.

Remove the old thermostat

After gathering your tools and thermostat accessories, switch off the power to your HVAC system through the breaker box. Return to your old thermostat, and gently pull off its cover. Here, you'll see a series of wires inserted into a terminal. Each wire serves a specific function and is labeled as one of the following:

🔴 Red wire (R/Rc/Rh): Supplies power to the thermostat

⚪ White wire (W): Connects to the heating system

🟡 Yellow wire (Y): Controls the air compressor

🟢 Green wire (G): Connects to the furnace or air handler fan

🟠 Orange (O): Joins the thermostat to a heat pump

🔵 Blue or black wire (C): Connects to a 24/7 power source

Some thermostats may be missing certain wires, like the O or C wire. The O wire is only used with systems that have a heat pump, and some older homes may not include a C wire.

Attach the labels provided with your ecobee kit to the correct wires. This helps you keep your work organized.

Take a picture and check system compatibility

The ecobee app prompts you to take a picture of your current wiring before starting the installation process. Make sure to do so—it will come in handy when you're connecting the wires to your new device. Also, check your HVAC system's compatibility using the app's checker tool. If you notice any high voltage labels, your system isn't compatible.

Mount and wire your new thermostat

Disconnect the wires from the original thermostat and remove its backplate. If you have any unsightly holes, you can cover them with the ecobee trim plate.

Line up the new trim plate or backplate so it covers the area where your thermostat will go. Use your pencil to mark where you'll insert the screws. Remove the plate, then drill holes into the wall using your 3/16" bit. Push the drywall anchors into each hole.

Reposition the trim plate or backplate and pull the wires through. Insert the screws into the anchors and tighten them. Then, install each labeled wire into its appropriate place in the terminal. You'll know a wire is securely attached if its lever is slightly depressed.

Standard HVAC systems have a five-wire setup that includes C, R, W, Y, and G wires. If your system has each of these wires, you won't need the PEK. However, if you're missing the C wire in a four-wire setup, you'll need to install the PEK on your furnace control board. To do so, carefully follow the app instructions based on your ecobee thermostat type and HVAC system.

Power on and complete the digital setup

When you're satisfied with your setup, attach the ecobee thermostat to the backplate. You'll hear a soft click when it fastens.

Re-enable the power to your HVAC system at the breaker unit. When you return to the thermostat, it should display the word "hi." This tells you that the setup was successful. From here, follow the on-device instructions to connect the new thermostat to your Wi-Fi network and assign it to your ecobee account.

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FAQ

Do I need a C wire to install an ecobee thermostat?

Not necessarily. If your system doesn’t have a C wire, you can use the included power extender kit (PEK).

How long does it take to install an ecobee thermostat?

Most installations take about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on your HVAC wiring and whether you need the PEK.

Is it safe to install an ecobee thermostat myself?

Yes, as long as you shut off power at the breaker box before handling any wires.

What happens if my HVAC system isn’t compatible?

If the compatibility checker flags high voltage wiring, your system may require professional installation or a different thermostat model.