Homes with heating and cooling units require thermostats. These devices are essential since they help you run your central HVAC unit by giving instructions to your system.
But is it possible to have two thermostats in one house?
Absolutely.
One house can have two thermostats — the two thermostat units connect to one HVAC unit to make your home more comfortable by giving different zones a different temperature as desired. An HVAC professional will also install dampers and controls for better temperature regulation in those areas.
So, having more than one thermostat in your home that connects to your main heating and cooling unit is quite okay. And in this article, you’ll get to know about this and how the setup works.
But before learning if you can have two thermostats in one house, you need to know the basics.
What is a Thermostat?
A thermostat is a device that connects to and controls your central HVAC system. This device is what you need to change the system from cool mode to heat mode. It also makes it easy to increase, decrease and control temperature settings in your home.
There are two types of thermostats that you can install in your home. These include:
- Dial (Analog) Thermostats
A dial thermostat relies on 2 metallic strips. These two form a bimetallic strip made possible by lamination.
As the temperature in your home changes, the metallic strips expand or contract. And as this happens, the HVAC unit goes on and off to cool or warm your home. Dial thermostats aren’t as user-friendly, hence the invention of digital temperature control units.
- Smart (Digital) Thermostats
A smart thermostat relies on an electronic sensor sensitive to temperature changes in your home. Setting the temperature to the exact degree and time changes is possible with smart thermostats. Smart thermostats even have alarms and updates when it’s time to service the HVAC unit.
Smart thermostats are by far the most popular options for modern homes. The good news is that you can easily change from a dial model to a smart one.
Simply consult with your HVAC professional to see if the HVAC system in your home is compatible.
Can You Have Two Thermostats in One House?
There’s no limit regarding the number of thermostats you can have in one home. It depends on the zones and the setup you have in your home. This means you can have 2 or more thermostats set up in one house and work simultaneously.
If your home has one thermostat, you can buy a second one. However, you should note some important points as you choose this option.
- Type of Home
Do you live in a one, two, or multiple storey home? Are there parts of the house that require more cooling/heating than others? The type of house you own can determine if you need one or two thermostats based on the energy demands.
- Size of the House
Is your home large or small? A large home might need different temperature settings, especially when there are numerous levels. On the other hand, a small living space can do well with one thermostat that regulates the overall temperature.
- Zoning Needs
Are you considering zone heating? For example, are there people in your home with varying temperature needs? Zone heating requires thermostats to be set up in these spaces to regulate the different temperature needs.
That way, when one section needs to be cool, the rest can remain at room temperature or warmer.
Two Thermostats One Unit: Is it Possible?
Having multiple thermostats in a home is very possible. You can connect two thermostats to one unit, especially if you have a large space.
It’s no secret that it requires lots of energy to cool or heat a vast area. Lucky for you, even with only one central HVAC system, you can add two thermostats to it.
The two thermostats that connect to your central HVAC make it easier to regulate the temperature in the house. Even conditioning makes life better and cozier for everyone. Many homes with a dual thermostat for one unit or more usually have zone systems, dampers, and controls.
How to Install 2 Thermostats on One AC Unit Like a Professional
If you have one thermostat in your home, installing another is possible. Installing an additional thermostat makes obtaining even conditions possible. Here is what you need to install multiple thermostats in a home:
- 1 or 2 new thermostats
- Zone control box
- Pointed pliers
- Thermostat wire (18-gauge multi-strand)
- Zone dampers
- Screwdriver
Step 1
Sketch your ductwork on a sheet of paper. Check the areas where each vent leads that connect back to the HVAC system. This will be important when creating different zones using zone dampers.
Check the spot where the ducts split into 2 zones in your home. Ensure you measure and mark them. Also, use this information to buy dampers.
Step 2
Find a spot in your ductwork and cut a hole. The hole must be big enough to fit the damper. Read the guidelines for the zone damper you buy for better accuracy.
Use the screwdriver to secure the zone damper and a silicone caulking agent for a better job. Do the same to all dampers, ensuring you install them correctly.
Step 3
Fetch the 18-gauge thermostat wire and use the pliers to strip the ends. Attach the naked wire to the damper’s wire holes. A zone damper can have 2 to 3 wire holes and requires wires to attach to the control box.
Step 4
Strip the other end of the wire and attach that to the zone control box. Checkmark areas as you attach the cables to get the connection right. Use a screwdriver to ensure the screws on the dampers and control box are tight.
Step 5
Locate the zone control box near the HVAC system. Check for spots on the wall near the unit or in the ductwork in your home. After that, check the control interface of your unit and run the 18-gauge 4-conductor wire to the zone control box.
There are terminals on the box where you attach the wire. So, strip the wire and connect it to the box. Check the initials to tell you the right colors to attach. For instance, R is Red and W is White. Always ensure the wire connects to the right-colored terminal.
Step 6
Once the zone dampers and control box are in place, proceed to install the new thermostat. Check the unit for instructions on proper installation and follow them to the letter.
Once the thermostat is in place, proceed to run a wire from it to the zone control box. Check a section on your damper marked Thermostat 1 or 2 and attach the terminal wires.