How Much Does It Cost to Install a Thermostat?

In this guide

Thermostat Cost by Type

Installing a thermostat in your home costs $15 to $300 for the unit. The total cost with labor included runs from $65 to $500. Thermostats have one job: control the heating and cooling systems, which can be done in several ways, depending on the type of thermostat. All types get the job done, but some may be better than others. There are four common types: manual, programmable, Wi-Fi, and Smart. Each has its own costs and method of use.

Manual Thermostat Price

Manual thermostats are the least expensive and simplest type. Their cost runs from $15 to $40 for the unit and $65 to $150 for installation that takes less than an hour. It is available in various sizes and shapes, depending on the brand. This type is great for anyone who spends most of their time at home. It is very basic and it does not allow you to manage the temperature in your home remotely or on a schedule. You set it to a temperature, and it stays there. If you want to change the temperature, you must manually reset it. A quality manual model saves energy if you take the time to adjust the settings.

Digital Thermostat Cost

Non-programmable units are the least expensive digital option. Their cost ranges from $20 to $80 per unit, while the cost of a programmable thermostat is $25 to $200. Having the unit installed, which takes around an hour, brings the cost to $80 to $400. A digital thermostat measures the resistance in the air with a microcontroller that provides an actual temperature reading. If the reading is different from the setting, the system kicks on to get the space at the correct temperature.

Both models have a digital display, but a programmable thermostat can lower the heat when you are away or asleep. They are a great way to save money on your power bill and help your HVAC system last longer. They are also ideal if you live in a location that suffers from chilly nights and warm days because you can program them accordingly. A non-programmable thermostat runs on the set temperature, which you have to adjust manually. The digital display only allows you to set a specific temperature.

Wi-Fi Thermostat Cost

You can expect to pay $50 to $250 when you purchase a model with Wi-Fi for a total cost with installation of $130 to $450 for one to two hours of labor. A Wi-Fi thermostat is also programmable and connects wirelessly via smartphone, tablet, or computer, allowing you to adjust the temperature remotely. It gives full control of your home’s temperature even when you are away. Wi-Fi units can be Smart or just programmable, depending on the type you purchase. Some learn your habits, but most rely on you making the adjustments.

Smart Thermostat Price

Smart options are the most expensive type and run from $120 to $300 each, bringing the total cost to $200 to $500 for an installed thermostat that would take up to two hours. It works with all your home automation tools. It can learn and adjust the heat or air conditioning to meet your needs. It notes patterns like when you arrive home and makes key adjustments to maximize energy efficiency. They also usually have voice controls and work with Amazon’s Alexa and Google Assistant. They come in several types, from tying to your phone’s location to basic programming capabilities.

Thermostat Price by Mode of Operation

Depending on how the thermostat works, line-voltage units cost $95 to $650 to install, while low-voltage thermostats cost $95 to $800 to install. Thermostats need to be connected with your system to work. Most people have low-voltage units in their homes that control your main heating and cooling systems and use very little voltage. With a stand-alone appliance, like a baseboard heater, you need a line-voltage unit that operates only this appliance. They have some cost overlap, but they install and work differently.

Line-Voltage

Line-voltage units are only for stand-alone appliances. The cost for the thermostat runs from $15 to $450, for a total cost of $95 to $650 for an installed unit. They run between 120 and 240 volts and typically have four thicker wires. You can install them nearby or on the appliance for electric radiant heat mats, electric baseboard heaters, and panel heaters. Line-voltage units are inexpensive, easy to install, and manual. They are rarely programmable and need to be turned on and set manually.

Low-Voltage

Low-voltage models cost $15 to $600. The installation brings the total cost to $95 to $800. Most units that control whole-house heating and cooling systems are low-voltage. This includes manual, programmable, and smart units. They use little electricity to operate, 24v on average. They are more difficult to install than a line-voltage model and require specific wiring because the lines are thinner than line voltage models. There may be two wires for thermostats without cooling up to seven wires for thermostats with heating and cooling settings.

New Thermostat Cost by Appliance

Depending on the appliance you are installing it to, a thermostat costs between $15 and $400. The cost with installation will be $100 to $600. Most people associate a thermostat with the controller operating the HVAC system, but many appliances can also have one. Each appliance may need its own brand of the thermostat if you need to replace it. Always check the appliance’s manual before purchasing:

Thermostat for Water Heater Price

Depending on the brand of thermostat you choose for your water heater, you can expect to pay $15 to $50 for the unit and $95 to $250 for installation. Your water heater's thermostat is usually located on the exterior. It is manual and it serves two purposes: to control and set the water’s temperature and instantly see the temperature. Your water heater determines its exact position, shape, and style. Always check with the brand to determine which one to install.

Thermostat for Dryer Price

A dryer thermostat runs $20 to $60 for the unit alone. You will pay between $100 and $260 to have it installed. Dryers use them to reach the correct temperature when drying clothes. Most are simpler than those used for ovens because many dryers can only be programmed broadly at low, medium, and high temperatures. Like ovens, the dryer’s thermostat is dictated by the dryer. This varies by model, brand, and layout.

Refrigerator Thermostat Price

The material cost of a refrigerator thermostat is low, running an average of $20 to $65 or $100 to $260 with installation included. It is installed just inside the refrigerator door. You can set the precise interior temperature that you want to keep the refrigerator running it. Without a thermostat that regulates the temperature, your refrigerator could freeze, or it may not keep food cold enough. It is usually very different depending on the refrigerator brand and style.

Oven Thermostat Cost

Oven thermostats come with a wider cost range. They run from $30 to $140 for the unit and $110 to $340 to have it installed. Your oven needs one to heat to the correct temperature. The thermostat is what you program to heat the oven to a specific temperature. When the oven reaches that temperature, the thermostat keeps it there. Without it, your oven would no longer reach or maintain the desired temperatures. Your oven’s thermostat is dictated by your oven type, fuel, and style.

AC Thermostat Price

A thermostat for an AC unit runs from $40 to $350, or $120 to $550 to have it installed in your home. Central air conditioning uses the same type of thermostat as a furnace. It installs on the wall of the main room in your home and allows you to control the unit from there. They can be manual, programmable, Wi-Fi, or Smart, depending on your preferences. If you have both heating and cooling systems, the same thermostat works for both.

Furnace Thermostat Cost

You can expect to pay $40 to $350 for a furnace thermostat for a total of $120 to $550 with installation included. If you use a forced hot air furnace to heat your home, you can use any type of wall thermostat. This is any style of low-voltage model. Install it wherever you spend most of your time, where it can accurately gauge the temperature. Any type, from manual to Smart, works.

Boiler Thermostat Cost

Boiler thermostats are one of the most expensive types to buy, with an average cost of $150 to $400 and a total cost of $230 to $600 to install it. If you use a boiler to heat your home, you will probably use the same type of wall thermostat as any other heating system. This is a low-voltage model of your choosing. This may mean a manual, programmable, Wi-Fi, or Smart thermostat controls your heating system. Since boilers may operate with radiant heating, such as radiant flooring or radiators, the exact model you choose should keep up with the heating system for the best results.

Labor Cost to Install a Thermostat

The average cost to install a thermostat is $250. Of this cost, the unit costs about $50 to $170, while labor costs are usually $80 to $200. Ideally, HVAC service technicians are the ones that install thermostats at a rate of $75 to $150 per hour for labor. Installation requires basic electrical knowledge, so always hire a professional. An electrician can also be hired to install your thermostat. They charge $40 to $120 per hour.

If you are simply installing a new one and have no other HVAC needs, an electrician would probably be the less expensive option. You will also need to call an electrician if you need to replace one inside an appliance or outside a furnace, boiler, or AC unit. HVAC technicians should be called when replacing one in an HVAC appliance and would likely be the better option to install the device if they are already there on a maintenance or repair call. Replacing an existing unit can take one or two hours, depending on the type of thermostat. Installing a new unit with complete HVAC installation can increase the installation time to up to three hours because the professional will have to run the wires from the unit to the thermostat. New installation entails drilling holes into the wall to run the wires to the air handler. The air handler is usually located nearby, such as in a closet.

Cost to Run a New Thermostat Wire

The cost to run a new thermostat wire is around $100 to $200, depending on how accessible the thermostat is. Installing a C wire is integral to any new thermostat installation, except for some manual models. It is particularly important for smart models as it provides a continuous return path for the 24V power. When upgrading from an older model to a newer one, you probably need a C wire run. This is a simple job that does not take much time and can be installed with your thermostat.

Cost to Install a New Thermostat by Brand

Depending on the thermostat brand, your cost ranges between $15 and $600 for the unit for an average cost of $95 to $800, installed. There are many thermostat brands and manufacturers to choose from. Some specialize in one specific type, while others provide a full range of products. Since the type you choose influences the price and installation, it helps to understand costs based on the more popular brands.

Honeywell Evohome Installation Cost

You can expect to pay $15 to $200 in materials for a Honeywell thermostat and around $95 to $400 to have one installed. Honeywell is a well-known brand that makes a very wide range of products, including Evohome, a Smart model. Their features include Wi-Fi capability and programmable settings. Their Smart products use geofencing technology to determine how close or far you are from home.

Sensi Thermostat Price

Sensi thermostats cost $20 to $170, with an installed cost of $100 to $370. Sensi is great for homeowners who want the benefits of a smart unit in a compact design. Their products are similar in size to older traditional models. However, they include all of the smart features you are looking for, such as the ability to connect remotely via your cell phone. They feature a sleek and modern design, which allows them to blend in with the decor.

Trane Thermostat Price

Trane prices run from $30 to $600, with the total cost installed being $110 to $800. Trane is probably best known for its air conditioning and HVAC systems, but they also make thermostats. They have a set range of options, including some Wi-Fi-capable programmable options with touch screens. Their products tend to be easy to use and install but less stylish than other brands.

Carrier Thermostat Price

For just the Carrier thermostat, you can expect to pay $60 to $600, with the total costs to have one installed running around $140 to $800. Carrier is one of the most well-known brands. They continue to innovate to stay on top of trends. They offer a wide range of programmable units and several types of smart models with the latest features.

Hive Thermostat Installation Cost

Hive prices usually run $80 to $250. You can expect to pay around $160 to $450 total installed price. Hive products are designed to integrate with smart home devices, such as Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. You can easily change the setting on one of these models using just the sound of your voice. Other popular features include notifications and custom scheduling. You can also add on special services which can allow you to track your heating costs.

Nest Thermostat Installation Cost

The cost of a Nest thermostat runs $110 to $250. The full cost installed averages $190 to $450. The Nest makes a wide range of products. Their products are known as “learning” units that use algorithms to determine your behavior. Over time, these algorithms adjust the unit automatically, making subtle temperature adjustments that will help you lower your overall energy costs without affecting the comfort level 9. Some models also offer furnace monitoring which alerts you if your furnace switches off due to a power outage or other unforeseen event.

Ecobee Thermostat Installation Cost

Ecobee thermostats are one of the most costly choices. They cost $130 to $250 for the unit itself and between $210 to $450 for total costs installed. Ecobee is considered a high-end option. They are more stylish than many brands, and their units are all Smart with several features. They use geofencing to determine your location and habits. They also work with Apple Home and other home automation hubs.

Vivint Thermostat Price

Vivint thermostats fall in the same price range as Nest ones. They cost $170 to $200 for the unit only and $250 to $400 if you include installation. Vivint sells smart models that can pair with home sensors to allow you to keep your entire home at a comfortable temperature while maintaining efficiency. They also feature some of the most popular features, including control through a voice assistant. Vivint products are also designed to integrate with the Vivint home security systems.

Home Thermostat Replacement Cost

The total cost of thermostat replacement is roughly $100 to $600, with labor costs being roughly $80 to $200, depending on labor rates and whether you are upgrading or not. Most wall thermostats for an HVAC system are quickly and easily replaced. It takes roughly one hour for most replacements unless you are upgrading to a unit that needs a C wire, in which case it can take two hours. This assumes that the unit remains where it was originally and not moving to a new wall.

Spikes in energy bills, lack of responsiveness, failing to power up, and fluctuating or incorrect temperatures are common signs that your unit might need replacing. If you have a programmable model and it starts to lose settings, then it could be failing. Short cycling, which is when the HVAC unit shuts off too early, is another bad sign. In addition, if your thermostat is more than 10 years old, it is time to replace it with a new one. If you replace your thermostat, the old unit's removal is included with the replacement cost.

Cost to Move a Thermostat

The total cost of moving a thermostat is $135 to $760, depending on the type of unit you will install. It takes about three hours or $120 to $360 for labor. You may need rewiring, which adds $100 to $200. An alternative to moving your thermostat is a wireless extension that gives you control of your unit from anywhere in the home, essentially adding a second one. This costs around $40 to $100 per unit.

Typically, the thermostat is installed in the home’s main room, where it is easily seen and reached. Sometimes, it is necessary to relocate it, with the most common place being on the same wall in a new location or an adjacent wall. In both these instances, you can move it DIY by removing the unit, cutting a new hole, and fishing the wires to their new location. If you want to move it to an entirely new room, you pay as if this is a brand new installation because the wires need to be run from the HVAC to the new location.

Thermostat Repair Cost

Repairing a thermostat can run from $100 to $300, depending on the type, the model, and whether any parts are under warranty. Battery replacement is one of the most common issues, along with wire replacement. Other possible issues you can run into include a damaged breaker or issues with short cycling. If a smart model needs repair, part of the process may include troubleshooting. It is easy to tell when your unit needs repair. It will often fail to register the temperature or trigger on the HVAC system when needed, leading to uncomfortable temperatures in the home.

Energy Efficiency

Choosing the right thermostat can make your life easier and save you a significant amount off of your monthly energy bills. Many homeowners opt for cheaper manual ones over programmable or smart options simply because of the initial cost. Yet, the extra you pay to upgrade to one of these options will likely pay for itself within the first year. According to EnergyStar, homeowners can save up to 8%, or around $50 per year, on their overall energy use by using an Energy Star rated smart thermostat model. You may save even more with an energy star model.

In some states, such as California and Florida, you can have a newer model installed for free by your utility company when you enroll in a program that allows the company to adjust your temperature during peak energy times. These measures lower energy use and increase your overall savings. If your utility doesn’t offer free thermostats, you may qualify for energy rebates up to $25 per unit simply for having them installed. There are also other ways to save money with how you program your unit. You can easily save over $100 per year by setting your temperature seven to ten degrees lower when you are asleep or away from home.

How Many Thermostats Do I Need?

While most homes only require one, there are situations where you may need two or more. Your thermostat controls the heating and cooling of your home. In many homes, your heating is set to be one “zone.” The furnace heats and cools the entire house at once. In this situation, you need only one. But if you have two zones, you may need two separate ones or a single one designed to handle two zones. Some homes may heat or cool most of the home with one system, such as a furnace, but may heat or cool a smaller section differently, like radiant heating. In this case, you need one for each system.

Maintenance​

There is little maintenance that needs to be performed to keep your thermostat functioning properly, but by ensuring it is properly maintained, you save on your energy costs. One of the most important maintenance tasks is having it calibrated, which will be done during your yearly HVAC maintenance visit, which runs from $100 to $150. Aside from calibration, it is important to keep it clean and free from dust to allow it to operate properly. You also may want to check it for loose wires and tighten them with a screwdriver if necessary.

Enhancement and Improvement Costs

Additional Remote

A programmable or Wi-Fi remote costs from $30 to $60, while the voice-activated remote/sensor for a smart model costs $80 to $130 for a three-pack. Smart thermostats have additional remote sensors that make them completely hands-off. You can use your tablet, smartphone, or computer to control and view your home’s temperature remotely. You can purchase extra remotes for your unit.

Wall Repair

A handyman charges $50 to $100 per hour to repair a wall that gets damaged during thermostat installation. If you replace an older thermostat with a newer one, the new model might be smaller or shaped differently, so you need wall repair. Most wall work includes filling in areas with plaster or drywall to cover up the extra part of the opening that is no longer needed for the new unit.

Thermostat Cover

If you want to lock your thermostat so that it cannot be tampered with, you can purchase a plastic cover for $15 to $50. A cover protects the thermostat from external damage and prevents anyone from changing the temperature you set. These vary by size and shape and screw into the wall over the unit so that no one can change the temperature. Unless you have wireless control or a Smart model, you need to unscrew the box to make any adjustments.

Wall Plate

Buying a new wall plate costs $5 to $10 each. Your thermostat sits on top of a wall plate, which screws to the wall and holds the thermostat in place. New models come with their own wall plates ready for installation. Some may not include it, so you will have to get one on your own. If this becomes damaged, it can no longer be installed on the wall. Replace the wall plate if this happens.

Temperature Sensors

A temperature sensor for a thermostat costs $10 to $20 per sensor. If your thermostat no longer works properly, it could be a faulty temperature sensor that does not measure the temperature properly. When it gets too hot or too cold in the room, the sensor triggers the unit to turn on the HVAC system. When the room reaches the desired temperature, the sensor turns it off again.