How Much Do Thermostats Cost to Replace or Install?

Your thermostat acts as the brain for your HVAC system, so you want one that functions well. Sometimes, simply replacing the battery gets your thermostat back on track, but other times, you need a replacement.

How much a thermostat costs depends largely on the type you choose. Find out the thermostat cost you can expect to prepare for an upgrade.

You can expect to pay between $30 and $300 for a new thermostat. The wide price range is due to the vast difference in thermostat models. A manual or non-programmable thermostat will come in on the low end, often around $30. You'll find a wide range in the middle for electronic programmable thermostats. At the high end, you'll find smart thermometers with lots of features — including programmable settings and remote access through a phone app. They're the most expensive to buy and have installed because of their advanced technology.

How Much Does Labor Cost for a Replacement or Installation?

If you want to have the thermostat professionally installed, you'll likely call an electrician to handle the job. The labor costs for having a thermostat installed typically range from $65 to $85 per hour. You can expect the project to take about two hours. However, some jobs are more complex and require more time, which increases labor costs.

Smart thermostats, like the Google Nest Learning Thermostat, generally take a little longer than regular thermostats to install because they have to connect properly to the different home systems. Hourly rates also vary by area, so the average cost for professional thermostat installation could be more expensive in your area.

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What Other Factors Might Impact the Overall Cost?

A thermostat replacement is generally cheaper than installing a new thermostat where you don't already have one. That's because installing a thermostat where there isn't one already requires the wiring to be run to a new location. It can be time-intensive to locate the wires and run wiring to the new thermostat location. If you have an old home with an old HVAC system and thermostat, you might need new wiring that works with your new thermostat. This increases the thermostat installation costs due to additional time and more materials.

The cost of the thermostat itself depends on how many features it has. Smart thermostats are generally more expensive than basic programmable ones, but you'll find a wide range of prices in both categories. Some programmable thermostats have extra features that cost more even though they're not smart thermostats. Compare the price with the features, and consider which features are most important if you're trying to save money.

Can You Install a Thermostat Yourself?

One way to save money on your overall thermostat cost is to install it yourself. A simple thermostat replacement is a relatively straightforward process many homeowners can handle on their own. If the new thermostat is similar to the old one, the process involves removing the old thermostat and connecting the new one to the same wires.

However, it can get complex if you're replacing an older thermostat with a new one or a basic non-programmable thermostat with a smart thermostat. Advanced thermostats involve more wires, and they need to be connected correctly for the system to work properly. If you need new wiring, the job is best left to a professional.

Even a simple job involves working with electrical wires, which can be dangerous. Always make sure the power is shut off completely to the thermostat before working and follow the manufacturer’s directions exactly.