Installing Programmable Thermostats
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How should I install a programmable thermostat for my Baseboard Heaters? Installing a Programmable Thermostat, Thermostat Compatibility with Heating Units. © By: Dave Rongey |
Wiring Programmable Thermostats
Electrical Project: How should I install a programmable thermostat for my Baseboard Heaters?
- Electric Baseboard Heating
- I live in Montreal and my house uses electric baseboards for heating.
- I have just purchased 5 new programmable thermostats for my Baseboard Heater.
- I purchased 2-wire line voltage thermostats and they were really easy to install.
- The specs for the New Thermostats are as follows:
- Model: UPM HTM611
- Rating: 120V/240V AC, 60Hz
- MAXIMUM LOAD: 3000W (12.5A); 3000W @ 240V or 1500W @ 120V
- MINIMUM LOAD: 500W
- Now here is my problem:
- I installed the thermostats and when I switched the breakers back on there were only two out of the five that seemed to work properly.
- The display on the other 3 thermostats did light up and the time showed up, but the temperature and heating information remained blank.
- Details that might help you determine what the problem is:
- I have 2 thermostats on the ground floor and 3 upstairs.
- Only one thermostat functions correctly on each story and the one that works, in both cases, is the one closest to the breaker box.
- At first I thought maybe the thermostats were defective so I tried switching them around and they all worked properly when installed in the same two spots (closest to the breaker box).
- I don’t know much about electrical wiring but it seems to me like they are set-up on two circuits and only the first thermostat on the circuit is getting enough juice.
- What I do not understand is why my previous thermostats didn’t give me this problem.
- As a reference, here are the specs for my Old Thermostats:
- Model: Ouellet 500
- Voltage: 120V to 240V, 50/60Hz
- Maximum Load: 16.7 A 50/60 Hz (4000W at 240V, 3465W at 208V and 2000W at 120V)
- Minimum Load: 1.25 A 60 Hz (300W at 240V, 260W at 208V and 150W at 120V). 2 A 50 Hz (500W at 240V, 430W at 208V and 250W at 120V).
Any idea what the problem may be?
This electrical wiring question came from: Philippe, a Homeowner from Montreal, Canada.
Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical question Philippe.
Installing Programmable Thermostats
Application: Installing programmable thermostats for baseboard heaters.
Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate – Best installed by a Licensed Electrician.
Electrical Tools Required: Basic Electricians Pouch Hand Tools and Voltage Tester.
Estimated Time: Depends on personal level experience and ability to work with tools.
Precaution: Identify the circuit for the furnace or heat pump, turn it OFF and Tag it with a Note before working with the thermostat wiring.
Troubleshooting and Testing: Most thermostats may be tested using a Volt/Ohm Meter. The thermostat battery should be tested and replaced as needed.
Notice: Make sure to get the exact replacement thermostat.
Thermostat Compatibility with Heating Units and the Controlled Space
Avoiding Problems with Programmable Thermostats
- Thermostat Compatibility
- Make sure your programmable thermostats are compatible with your existing heating system.
- Wiring Multiple Thermostats
- The thermostats must be set up to work correctly when there are more than one programmable thermostats being used.
- Multiple thermostats must be compatible with each other and be configured to work together as a network.
- Thermostat Location
- The electric heating system for one room must be controlled by a thermostat in the same room area being heated.
- Wall thermostats are typically mounted 5 feet high off of the floor.
- Heating System Specifications
- Consult the owners manual of both the heating units and the thermostats for specific detailed instructions.
Additional Resources about Wiring Heaters and Thermostats
How to install a baseboard heater. Electrical wiring information with photos and instructions for wiring a baseboard electric heater.
The following may also be helpful for you:
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Be Careful and Be Safe - Never Work on Energized Circuits!
Consult your Local Building Department about Permits and Inspections for all Electric Wiring Projects.
More articles about Programmable Thermostats and Home Electrical Wiring: |
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