How to install a smart thermostat on my furnace?
Furnace is a Slant/Fin VSPH-90 boiler. There are three thermostat terminals at the boiler end, but only two have wires connected to them (see photo). The two wires connect to the W and R terminals in the (old) thermostat (see second picture). There is also a jumper between the R and RC terminals at the thermostat end. There is obviously no common wire, but can this be made to work?
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Hi GuyRoger, I would contact the customer service department of the manufacturer of the Smart Thermostat.
Here's a link to the manual for the furnace. Hopefully it will give you some insight. If not, I would go to the thermostat manufacturer for help'
https://www.slantfin.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/VSPH-Installation-and-Operating-Instructions-413.pdf
Not all smart thermostats are made for two wire connections. Specific models are made for two wire hookup
Thermostat wiring explained
https://learnmetrics.com/thermostat-wiring/
Both the Nest E and Nest Gen 3 thermostats can be installed with 2 wires. You can check other brands models
https://www.onehoursmarthome.com/blog/nest-thermostat-2-wire-hookup
The common wire just provides power for the display screen of the thermostat. The R wire (power) is not continuous. The C wire completes the circuit from the R wire.
https://www.diysmarthomesolutions.com/smart-thermostat-c-wire-explained/
Hello Guy, hope this video helps you out,
https://www.google.com/search?q=how+to+install+a+smart+thermostat+with+only+2+wires&rlz=1C1CHBF_enCA937CA937&oq=how+to+install+a+smart+thermostat&aqs=chrome.1.69i57j0i512l3j0i22i30l6.17550j0j15&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8#kpvalbx=_uV3WYaKEHPGx0PEP8ty2sAI34
Here is their contact info:
Slant/Fin VSL Series ManualConnect with their techs
https://all-guidesbox.com/manual/2011593/slant-fin-vsl-series-manual-4.html
Smart thermostats have specific wiring requirements. I'd strongly encourage you to bring in pro to install it, if it can be, so you don't unintentionally fry out your furnace. Beware of creating a C wire -- doing this caused our Nest to stop working and almost ruined our furnace.
Looking at the photos, it seems like you've got two wires connected to the W and R terminals. To set up a smart thermostat, you'll need a common wire (C) for power, but don't worry, it might still be doable!
You can check out dynamicheatandcool.ca/services/furnace/furnace-repair/ for furnace repair services. They might be able to help you figure out if there's a way to make it work without a common wire or suggest alternative solutions.
Find a local thermostat installation master who can evaluate the job and also recommend great systems for it. He will also help you complete all the work correctly and safely.
How to Install a Thermostat
https://www.homedepot.com/c/ah/how-to-install-a-thermostat/9ba683603be9fa5395fab90ebfe13c6
To make your Slant/Fin VSPH-90 boiler work without a common wire, you can indeed proceed with the current wiring setup.
The two wires you have are likely for heating control: one wire (R) for power, and the other (W) for heating call. The jumper between R and RC is standard practice when there's only one power source for both heating and cooling; it won't be necessary if you don't have or plan to add cooling control. If your system requires a common wire for continuous power to the thermostat, you might consider installing a 'C' wire adapter, which can provide power without needing new wiring to the boiler. It's crucial to consult the boiler's installation manual for specific wiring instructions and to ensure compatibility with your thermostat.
For detailed guidance, the Slant/Fin VSPH-90 manuals provide comprehensive instructions on electrical wiring and thermostat connections. Always ensure that any modifications or installations are performed by qualified professionals as we have at https://priorityaircomfort.ca to maintain safety and system integrity.
Hi Roger! You can check out this article on how to install a smart thermostat. Hope this helps!
https://www.lowes.com/n/how-to/install-a-programmable-thermostat