Written by

Tom Grupa

September 6, 2023

Thermostat Replacement Cost

The average cost to replace a thermostat in a home is $140 to $350, including the unit and professional installation. Thermostat prices range from $15 to $250, depending on the type, brand, and features. Nest thermostat installation costs $100 to $200 for labor if the unit is provided.

DIY installation is possible if you have basic electrical knowledge. Otherwise, electricians charge $50 to $130 per hour for a home thermostat replacement, which takes 30 minutes to 3 hours.

Thermostat Prices

Thermostat prices range from $15 for a basic mechanical unit to $320 for a smart self-learning unit that saves energy. Costs depend on the type, brand, and features. Professional installation adds $80 to $200 to your total cost.

Options and features to consider before purchasing:

• Battery-powered or hardwired

• Programmable by day or week or controlled manually or self-adjusts with learning

• Dial, buttons, or touchscreen

• Controlled remotely by a smartphone app or by voice (built-in Wi-Fi or Bluetooth)

• No display or digital/electronic display

• Connected to a central control hub or just to your heating/cooling system

• Switch automatically from heating to cooling or not

• Filter and battery indicator

• Single-stage, two-stage, or variable capacity

Cost To Install Smart Thermostat

The average cost of installing a smart thermostat is $225 to $400, depending on the brand, model, features, and if the wiring needs updating. Without installation, the cost of a smart thermostat unit ranges from $100 to $250.

Smart thermostats like Nest automatically learn your preferences over time and optimize the energy used to save money. Plus, you can connect to the thermostat remotely over Wi-Fi to adjust temperatures or program a heating and cooling schedule.

Wi-Fi Thermostat Installation Cost

A Wi-Fi thermostat costs $70 to $200 for the unit plus $100 to $200 for professional installation. A Wi-Fi or Bluetooth-controlled thermostat allows for remote access but doesn't learn like a smart unit over time. Popular brands include Lennox, iComfort, and Honeywell.

Cost To Install Digital Programmable Thermostat

The average cost to install a programmable thermostat is $200 to $300, depending on the type and features. A digital programmable thermostat costs $80 to $140 for the unit only. The more expensive models may include a touchscreen, vacation override, keyboard lock, and programmable scheduling.

Electronic Non-Programmable Thermostats Cost

An electronic thermostat costs $20 to $50 for just the unit, plus $80 to $150 for installation labor. These models use an electronic temperature sensor to open or break the electric circuit to the heating or cooling system.

Mechanical, Manual, Analog, or Non-Programmable Thermostats

A manual thermostat costs $15 to $40, plus $65 to $150 for installation labor unless you DIY. Mechanical or manual units are being phased out since some contain small levels of mercury and most have minimal features. About 80% of the mechanical thermostats are heat-only types.

Thermostat Installation Cost Factors

Replacing a thermostat with a similar unit is quick and easy as the wiring is the same. If you’re replacing an old analog unit with a smart thermostat, additional costs for new wiring, additional remotes, or a central hub may apply.

Thermostat Labor Cost

The average labor cost for a thermostat replacement is $80 to $200, depending on if it's a basic or smart thermostat and how long the project takes. HVAC service costs $50 to $150 per hour for new thermostat installation, which takes 30 minutes to 3 hours.

Replacement may include changing the unit's location, adding wiring or circuitry, programming the unit, or cutting into walls.

Number of Thermostats

Contractors may offer discounts for installing multiple thermostats at once, such as if you have a multi-zone HVAC system with electronic dampers or baffles.

An HVAC zoning system costs $1,700 to $4,500 installed. Multi-zoned systems save on energy costs and have remote sensors to control the temperature in each zone independently.

Cost To Run New Thermostat Wire

The average cost to run a new thermostat C-wire is $90 to $135, depending on the access points and placement of existing wire. Installing a C-wire is required in older homes when upgrading to a thermostat that uses continuous power to run the display and Wi-Fi connection.

About 90% of thermostats require a C-wire to get running. Some brands include a C-wire adapter with the kit.

Repair, replacement, and connection of existing thermostat wiring costs $60 to $200 for complex jobs. Some furnaces must be wired to the thermostat while others have sensors added.

Cost To Move A Thermostat

The average cost to move a thermostat is $135 to $450, depending on the distance. Drywall repair costs $75 to $150 to patch the old hole and cut a new one, while wiring installation runs $7 to $10 per linear foot.

Moving a thermostat to a temperature-stable area saves on energy bills since the HVAC won’t be triggered to start unnecessarily. Place the unit in a location that is:

• Out of the sun

• Away from drafts or dead air space

• Away from electronics and warm appliances

• Near a return-air duct

Thermostat Accessories

While thermostat accessories often come with the unit, sometimes you’ll need to buy them separately.

Smart Home Hub / Remote System

Smart hubs or remote systems cost $70 to $230 and can control temperature, lighting, security, and appliances all from one app. Remote hubs for thermostats require a C-wire (common wire) to give continuous power.

New Thermostat Costs By Brand

Thermostat prices also vary by brand and features. Most popular thermostats can be purchased from local home improvement stores or online via Amazon. Here are the costs of top-rated thermostats by type:

Nest Thermostat Installation Cost

Nest thermostat installation costs $100 to $200 for labor if you provide the thermostat unit. Installation takes 30 to 60 minutes, depending on if you’re also setting up the Nest hub.

DIY Nest installation is also possible for tech-savvy homeowners. Watch their installation video series to get started.

Hive Thermostat Installation Cost

Hive thermostat installation costs $100 to $200 for labor if you provide the thermostat unit. Installation takes less than 90 minutes, depending on if you’re also setting up the Hive hub.

Hive's smart thermostat comes with a one-year warranty and is Energy Star certified. Watch their video guide for DIY installation.

Other Popular Thermostat Brands & Prices

Cost to Change Furnace, Refrigerator, & Oven Thermostats

The cost to change a thermostat for a furnace, refrigerator, oven, or other appliances depends mainly on the labor and difficulty of access.

AC & Furnace Thermostat Replacement Cost

In some homes, the AC and furnace thermostats are installed separately. The average cost to replace a furnace thermostat is $190 to $480, while replacing an AC thermostat runs $120 to $200. These individual systems apply to homes that have an alternative heating source or only need to cool certain rooms.

Wall or Floor Heater Thermostat Replacement Cost

A wall or floor heater thermostat replacement costs $230 to $485, depending on the type and voltage. Each manufacturer typically has a list of compatible replacements. Most models work off low-voltage, while others are plug-in.

• High-voltage or line-voltage thermostats cost $30 to $85, plus installation labor. They are usually mounted beside the unit and have a twist dial.

• Millivolt thermostats cost $20 to $50, plus labor. Many of these heaters are gas-fired.

Refrigerator Thermostat Replacement Cost

Refrigerator thermostat replacement costs $100 to $250 for the part and labor or $10 to $40 for the part alone. Installing a digital thermostat is preferable because it can keep the desired temperature accurate and consistent.

The thermostat needs to be replaced if there is no click when you turn it from the lowest to the highest setting or if a multimeter shows it has no continuous voltage, current, and resistance.

Hot Water Heater Thermostat Replacement Cost

A hot water heater thermostat replacement costs $150 to $350, depending on if the unit is gas or electric and whether the heating element is replaced. Most water heaters have two thermostats and two elements that are replaced at the same time. Many technicians recommend replacing it with a programmable wireless option.

• Electric – Replacing an electric water heater thermostat is an easy DIY job if you're comfortable working with electrical wiring and are careful to turn off power to the unit.

• Gas – Replacing a gas water heater thermostat requires a professional as it’s usually part of the gas valve.

Boiler Thermostat Cost

Replacing the thermostat in a boiler costs $280 to $480 for the part and labor. Prices range from $160 to $280 for the unit and $120 to $200 for the installation labor.

Oven Thermostat Replacement Cost

The average cost to replace an oven thermostat is $80 to $240. An oven thermostat has a sensor bulb and capillary tube in a mounting bracket within the control panel, and the entire module will be replaced.

Dryer Thermostat Replacement Cost

Replacing a dryer thermostat costs $150 to $300 for the part and labor. Purchasing the parts to make the repairs yourself runs $40 or less. Replacing the electronic control board, which ties to the thermostat costs $100 to $200 more. In comparison, a new dryer costs $800 to $1,200.

If there is no heat at all or the dryer overheats quickly and shuts off, replace the thermostat. Otherwise, if the clothes are taking ages to dry, check if the lint duct is clogged.

Thermostat Energy Cost Savings

Upgrading to a digital, programmable, or smart thermostat with proper settings saves up to $180 per year on your energy bills.

Check the Energy Star site for possible rebates in your area when you install or upgrade your thermostat.

Energy providers in some cities offer a $25 rebate for each smart thermostat you purchase and install, and up to an $85 incentive to enroll in a voluntary power management program. The program briefly adjusts your temperature setting during peak energy demand to save money.

Are Smart Thermostats Worth The Cost?

Smart thermostats save up to 15% on your energy bill when programmed correctly. Smart thermostats learn your temperature adjustment habits and save $180 per year by optimizing the heating and cooling cycles.

A smart thermostat can pay for itself in less than 2 years in energy savings.

Cost of Raising or Lowering Thermostat 1 Degree

• Reducing or increasing your heater by one degree lowers or raises your heating bill by 5.4% for that month or about $3 on an average $60 bill.

• Changing the AC up or down by 1 degree adds or subtracts 10% to 18% in energy costs per month, or $30 on an average $200 bill.

Savings or expenses depend on the home's insulation, HVAC equipment’s performance, your local climate, and the cost of gas and electricity. Consider improving the insulation in both the attic and basement before changing comfort levels in the home.

Considerations When Replacing a Thermostat

Consider these factors when replacing your thermostat:

• Scheduling the Install – Choose a day and time when you likely won’t need heat or cooling in case the installation takes longer than expected.

• Hazardous waste – Thermostats older than 2002 might contain mercury, and disposal methods must follow state laws. If you see an ampoule of silver mercury, bring it to a hazardous waste facility or HVAC supplier or ask your contractor.

• Location – Install the thermostat away from direct sunlight, heat sources, drafts, warm appliances or devices, or dead air space (behind doors or furniture), so it can accurately assess the temperature.

• Drywall or Wall Plate – Expect to pay more to add a wall plate or fix and paint the drywall if the new thermostat is smaller than the old one.

• Renting – If a landlord pays the energy bills, ask if they will cover the installation cost. However, this means you cannot take the thermostat with you when you move.

Thermostat Compatibility and Staging

The new thermostat must be compatible with the power requirements of the existing system. Most HVAC systems are called low-voltage systems, and they use 24V power.

Installing a thermostat to a line voltage circuit without using an adapter or rewiring can break the thermostat and even cause a fire. All thermostats turn the heating and cooling system on or off through either:

• Single-stage – Manual control, only runs at full capacity

• Two-stage – Two levels of output. The unit runs for longer periods but provides more balanced temperatures.

• Variable Capacity – More energy-efficient and quieter than two-stage. Sensors communicate the temperature to the unit to precisely control how much heating or cooling is required as efficiently as possible.

• Zoned System – In addition to the stage type, separate heating and cooling zones can turn on or off based on sensors working with the same HVAC system.

Thermostat Replacement FAQs

When Should I Replace My Thermostat?

You should replace your thermostat every time you replace your central air conditioner, heater, or HVAC system. Thermostats typically last 10 years before their performance starts to decline or they stop working.

Consider thermostat replacement if:

• Programmed settings change on their own.

• The thermostat has a short battery life, dusty coil, or wiring issues.

• The thermostat has a blown fuse, transformer issue, or primary circuit board problem.

• The thermostat is tilted or in a bad location and needs to be moved.

• The heat anticipator needs adjustment to a longer or shorter lag time.

What Are the Symptoms of a Bad Thermostat?

Common symptoms of a bad or failing home thermostat are:

• The thermostat display is not working or only partially functioning, and there are no power or circuit issues

• The thermostat’s recorded temps in the house don’t match temps measured with another recorder.

• It doesn’t switch heat or cool air on or off within 15 minutes of you changing the settings.

• Hot or cold air turns on and off too frequently, takes too long to turn on, or doesn’t work at all.

• The batteries have corroded the connection points. Replace the batteries once a year to avoid corrosion.

How Long Does A Home Thermostat Last?

A home thermostat lasts 10 years on average. The life expectancy depends on proper maintenance like dusting the coils, adjusting the anticipator, and making sure the thermostat is level. After a decade, the thermostat’s performance often begins to decline.

How Long Does It Take to Replace A Thermostat?

Replacing a thermostat takes 30 minutes to 3 hours, depending on the type, accessories, and if any repairs are needed. Smart thermostats take the longest to install and require rewiring and Wi-Fi setup.

How to Replace a Thermostat?

Most brands and home improvement stores have instructions and instructional videos for how to install or replace a thermostat. Check out Honeywell’s or Lowe’s how-to videos.

1. Tools and materials – Needle-nose pliers, screwdriver, cell phone camera to record existing wiring, screws, mounting plate, thermostat

2. Power – Make sure you turn the power off at the circuit breaker before beginning, and also the power to your AC or furnace unit.

3. Photo – Once you have removed the thermostat face, take a picture of the existing wiring to ensure the correct new wiring, or label them.

4. Disconnect wiring – Disconnect wires and take care not to let connecting wires slip back into the wall by taping them or wrapping them around a pencil. Remove old thermostat.

5. Line up – the new mounting plate against the wall and mark the screw holes with a pencil. Install anchors into drywall.

6. Connect new wiring – Twist the bare end of the existing and new wires together. Connect:

   • Red to red – the 24-volt AC power to the thermostat

   • White to white – usually for heat

   • Blue or yellow to the B or Y connection – usually for cooling.

   If the thermostat has a ground wire labeled G or C, connect it to the circuit ground wire, which is usually black but sometimes green (which could alternatively be for the blower fan).

7. Wall repair – Take care of any wall finishing.

8. Unit – Screw new unit to the wall. Turn the power back on.

What’s the Best Setting for My Thermostat?

According to a study by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), the mean indoor temperatures homeowners set their thermostats to for the most comfort are:

• Heating: 70°F (21°C)

• Cooling: 75°F (24°C)

Hiring A Thermostat Installer

When replacing an older two-wire manual thermostat, a DIY replacement is possible once the power to the house is turned off. More complex systems such as a smart, digital, or Wi-Fi unit may have 10 to 12 wires to connect and require a professional thermostat installer.

An improper installation runs the risk of blowing out the new thermostat or HVAC unit or suffering an electric shock. When hiring a professional, be sure to:

• Get at least three estimates to compare.

• Ask for recommendations from family, friends, and neighbors.

• Read reviews on HomeGuide and Google.

• Never pay up front or in cash. Agree on a payment for work completed.