Archives for September 2017

Your Thermostat Wiring Step by Step Guide

This guide will walk you through removing your old thermostat and connecting the thermostat wiring to the new one. If you haven’t removed the old one yet, wait!

There’s important information here about what to do with the thermostat wiring when disconnecting it from the old unit. It will help you avoid confusion when wiring the new unit.

Why You Might Need to Replace the Thermostat

There are three common reasons to replace a thermostat.

If your HVAC system is having any of these problems, there’s a possibility the thermostat is the cause:

Your HVAC system won’t start or it won’t stop: Broken thermostat wiring or terminals prevent the HVAC components from getting the signal to start. A miscalibrated thermostat will misread the temperature and not start the system when it should or start it when it should not.
Hot and cold swings: A faulty thermostat can cause heating and cooling cycles to run too long or too short leading to temperature fluctuations.

Secondly, you might have to upgrade the control if you’ve installed two-stage or variable-capacity equipment and your current thermostat wiring doesn’t support it.

Finally, you might want the convenience and potential energy savings of a programmable thermostat or a WiFi thermostat like the Nest, Ecobee or Honeywell Lyric.

Tools & Specs to Keep in Mind

The tool list for replacing a thermostat is short:

Narrow flat screwdriver;
Phillips screwdriver;
Vise-grip pliers;
Drill or driver;
3/16” or 1/4″ drill bit;
12” to 24” level;
Cellphone with camera or masking tape and a marker.

The new control must match your system’s capabilities. If you don’t know these, pull the cover off to check the thermostat wiring on the old unit. Yellow wires are typically for AC. If there is one yellow wire, it’s a single-stage AC; Two yellow wires indicate a two-stage or variable-capacity unit. White wires are for the furnace, and the same principle of one or two wires applies. There might be one or two wires not connected to a terminal. They are for HVAC components or functions your system doesn’t have, such as a heat pump reversing valve typically connected to the orange wire.

When shopping for thermostats, their packaging or the control’s online description should list what type systems each supports. With the preliminaries out of the way, here are step-by-step thermostat wiring instructions. Please also look at the below extra tips extracted from the steps.

Replacing a Thermostat in 14 Steps

Turn off the power;
Remove the thermostat cover;
Open the new thermostat package;
Take a picture and label the wires;
Remove the wiring from the old unit;
Remove the baseplate from the wall;
Attach vise grip pliers to the wires;
Mark the new baseplate holes;
Install the new baseplate;
Attach the wires to the new thermostat;
Install batteries in the thermostat;
Mount the thermostat on the baseplate;
Program the new thermostat;
Turn on the power, and test your HVAC system.

Extra Info and Instructions for the Steps

1: Turn off the circuit or circuits in the electrical box that powers your HVAC system.
2: Most unclip at the top and can be pulled forward and off.
3: You’re looking for ready-made labels marked Y, G, W and so forth.
4: Before removing any wires, take a picture showing to what terminal each is attached. Then, use the new labels or marked tape to label each wire with the letter on or next to its terminal connection. These two steps are redundant, but a safeguard against miswiring the new control.
6: Hold the wires with one hand, and pull the baseplate away from the wall with the other. When there’s room, reach behind the baseplate, and grab the wires. Remove the baseplate.
7: This ensures the wires aren’t pulled into the wall
8: Place the new baseplate over the wires and mark the holes.
9. Drill the holes and install wall anchors before securing the baseplate with screws
10. Loosen each terminal screw first. Then, attach the wires to the terminal with the same letter. Double-check yourself using the picture you took of the old thermostat wiring scheme.
11: Most units require one or more batteries for lighting.
13: The thermostat might have a switch indicating the type furnace you have gas/oil is one option, and electric is the other. Position the switch appropriately as well as switches for AC/Heat and Fan On/Auto. Follow the included instructions to program, monitor and use your new control. If there’s a phone app for it, download it, and get familiar with its operation.

Caution Notes

There is an industry standard regarding the color of the wires used for each function, yellow for cooling and white for heat, for example. It is surprising how often the standard isn’t followed. This is why labelling and taking a picture of the thermostat wiring on the old unit are essential. When installing the new unit, connect the wires to the same terminal on the new unit they were connected to on the old thermostat, regardless of color. If you rely on color, and the standard was not followed, your system won’t run. The worst-case scenario is that you might short the control board on the furnace or air handler, and that is a pricey repair.

If your HVAC system doesn’t work properly once the new thermostat is installed, make sure each wire is secure in its terminal. If problems persist, turn off the system and get assistance from a local HVAC professional.

Save Money on Thermostat Wiring

Replacing a thermostat is DIY-friendly. Just go slow, take a picture and label wires. Hiring an HVAC technician for the work will cost $75+, and that’s money that should stay in your pocket.

An easy way to save your family and friends that cash is to share this thermostat wiring guide with them. They’ll appreciate the tips! After you replace your thermostat, feel free to chime in here on how the job went for you. It will encourage others to tackle thermostat wiring rather than spending money on pro installation.

Image from pixabay.com.

Tempstar Air Conditioner Review: Pros, Cons, Performance

Researching Tempstar central ACs and other brands is easy with our comprehensive air conditioner reviews. This Tempstar air conditioner review includes basic specifications for all models—efficiency and pros and cons. You can also compare with other AC reviews we’ve completed for Carrier, Lennox, Trane, Bryant, Goodman and more.

Temptstar is part of International Comfort Products (ICP). This is a division of Carrier, though models are distinct from Carrier air conditioners. Heil, Arcoaire, KeepRite and ComfortMaker are ICP brands sold nationally or regionally in North America and DO have the same models as Tempstar.

Tempstar Air Conditioner Brand Overview

Tempstar makes a varied lineup of 12 central air conditioner models, each in sizes up to 60,000BTU/h (aka 5 tons). They are grouped into three series:

Basic: Performance Series (7 models, 13-16 SEER);
Better: QuietComfort Series (3 models, 13-16 SEER);
Best: Deluxe Series (2 models, 17 & 19 SEER).

Our goals are to assist you in selecting an AC that fits your efficiency and performance needs. We also aim to help in deciding if an AC/furnace system or heat pump system is a better option for your specific heating and AC requirements.

Tempstar Air Conditioner Technical Specs

The specifications are where we learn about efficiency and performance to find the best one for our application.

The Deluxe 19 TVA9 is Tempstar’s AC with a variable-speed compressor that modulates between 40% and 100% to deliver just enough cooling to keep your home’s temperature precisely on the thermostat set point (think cruise control);
The Deluxe 17 (TCA7) is Tempstar’s only 2-stage model. So, it runs on low capacity (about 65%) most of the time for quieter cooling with little temperature fluctuation;
The other 10 models are single-stage ACs that run at full capacity with performance that is loud. It also creates slight temperature swings and does not reduce humidity as well as 2-stage and variable-speed models;
Deluxe Series models and the QuietComfort 16 (TSA6) are Tempstar’s only Energy Star-certified models;
Deluxe and QuietComfort Tempstar air conditioner models are supported by the brand’s Wi-Fi Observer control. It allows remote monitoring and adjusting. This is even though Tempstar ACs can work with any brand thermostat that matches single-stage or stage cooling;
Noise limits range from 56dB in the Deluxe 19, considered comparatively quiet, to 76dB in the Performance 16, considered significantly louder than average.

PROs and CONs of Tempstar Air Conditioners

The public considers ICP brands including Tempstar above average for quality and reliability. However, the quality of the installation plays a major role too. Here are Tempstar AC pros and cons for comparison with other brands on your short list.

Tempstar Air Conditioner PROs

You have fair efficiency and performance options with the lineup from 13-19 SEER and single-stage, two-stage and variable-capacity units;
Tempstar offers warranties that are well-above the industry average. This includes many with 5-year or 10-year unit replacement coverage that provides for a complete new AC/condensing unit if the compressor or coil fail in that time;
The two-speed fan motor on Deluxe models runs more quietly and more efficiently than single-stage fans do;
The Performance 14 NH4A4 Tempstar air conditioner is a compact model ideal for installation in multi-family housing. They also work in residences where distance between houses is narrow and other space-limited locations;
The Performance 13 N4A3**C is durably built and coated for the demands of harsh, seaside climates. But since its efficiency is just 13 SEER, it is not a good fit for warm, humid locations;
Powder-coat finishes are durable and they resist to fading and scratching;
Soft-mounted compressors on Deluxe and QuietComfort Tempstar air conditioner models reduce compressor startup noise;
The four units compatible with the Observer wall control are ideal for those with variable, unpredictable schedules who want the convenience of controlling their HVAC system remotely to reduce energy use and make sure their home is comfortable when they arrive;
Tempstar has a national distribution system, so replacement parts and entire units are readily available throughout North America;
Any professional HVAC technician can service these units.

Tempstar Air Conditioner CONs

The most efficient unit, the 19 SEER TVA9, is significantly less efficient than top models from Lennox (XC25 – 26 SEER), Maytag (PSA4BI – 25.5 SEER) and Amana (AVXCO – 24.5 SEER). So, it isn’t the best choice in climates with extreme heat;
There are 12 Tempstar air conditioner models. Yet, only the top two offer staged cooling with little performance or efficiency difference between the bottom six units;
Air conditioners with sound levels of 74-76 decibels are loud. Six Tempstar ACs are in that range;
Tempstar air conditioner models have competitive prices. But, like most brand ACs, they are only sold through registered dealers. Sp, it requires getting a written estimate to know what the total installation cost will be.

Things to Consider Before Purchasing a Tempstar Air Conditioner

The first consideration is whether a central AC is the right choice for you. In very warm climates where heating is rarely necessary, a heat pump and air handler might keep energy bills lower throughout the year. In very cold climates, a heat pump and gas furnace dual-fuel system is the best path to low energy bills. Tempstar heat pumps are dual-fuel compatible.
If you’re replacing just the AC, then consider efficiency. The warmer and/or more humid your summers are, the higher the unit’s efficiency should be. The one exception might be if you are moving soon and don’t want to pay more for an AC you won’t use for long. But remember that smart buyers will want to know the AC’s efficiency. A very efficient Tempstar air conditioner can be a selling point.
Finally, make sure your AC contractor installs the right size air conditioner. If your home’s insulation, doors or windows have been through an upgrade since the last AC installation, the replacement Tempstar air conditioner should probably be smaller than the last one. A unit that is too large wastes energy. It can also cause temperature swings by over-cooling the space.

Don’t Forget Quality Installation

Many rigorous tests of air conditioners on the market show that most leading brands, Tempstar included, perform well when after a proper installation. A careless and imprecise process and setup can cause even the very best ACs to run poorly and have mechanical issues early. Get estimates from several local AC companies with a good reputation. Also, make sure the installers are certified, experienced and insured and that their work is backed by a warranty.

Has our Tempstar air conditioner review allowed you to narrow your options for your next AC? Why not help your friends and followers narrow their choices too by sharing this post? Remember to check out all our HVAC reviews to compare brands, HVAC systems, thermostats and more.

Tempstar Heat Pump Review: Pros, Cons, Performance

This Tempstar heat pump review is where you can research models and their specifications as you compare this brand with Lennox, Trane, Carrier, Rheem and other leading brands we have reviewed. We include Tempstar pros and cons to consider before deciding on your next heat pump.

Tempstar is one of the brands made by International Comfort Products (ICP), which is part of United Technologies Corporation (UTC). The Tempstar catalog is identical to Heil and other ICP brands sold regionally in North America such as ComfortMaker, Arcoaire and KeepRite. UTC brands Carrier and Bryant are distinct from ICP brands.

Tempstar Heat Pump Brand Overview

Like many top heat pump brands, Tempstar makes three series that you can differentiate by efficiency and climate control features:

Basic: Tempstar Performance Series (4 models);
Better: QuietComfort Series (2 models);
Best: QuietComfort Deluxe Series (3 models).

In the Things to Consider section below are general guidelines for choosing the right series/model for your application. These specifications will assist too.

Tempstar Heat Pumps Technical Specs

Here’s what you get with a Tempstar, starting with the top-of-the-line heat pumps.

All QuietComfort Deluxe Series models (TVH8, TCH9, TCH6) and the TSH5 heat pumps are certified Energy Star models with at least 16 SEER/9.0 HSPF efficiency;
The Tempstar TVH8 heat pump is the brand’s variable-capacity model with a compressor that modulates between 40% and 100% of capacity. It delivers quiet, precise and efficient heating and cooling;
Other Deluxe Series models are Tempstar two-stage heat pumps that run on low most of the time for quieter, longer cycles. These produce more balanced temperatures than single-stage heat pumps;
QuietComfort and Performance Series Tempstar heat pump models are single-stage units. They run on full capacity and can cause slight temperature fluctuations;
Dual fuel heating systems with a heat pump and gas furnace are ideal for climates where winter temperatures often drop below freezing. This is a range in which heat pumps aren’t effective;
ALL Tempstar heat pumps are dual-fuel compatible. The feature means that the system automatically switches to gas furnace heat when necessary and back to the heat pump when temperatures rise;
The Deluxe 18 TVH8 runs as quietly as 56 decibels making it one of the quietest models available;
Tempstar’s Observer communicating wall control is a Wi-Fi thermostat that supports QuietComfort Deluxe and QuietComfort Series.

Tempstar Heat Pump PROs and CONs

As a brand, Tempstar has a middle-of-the-pack reputation, but that’s where most brands are. Here are the benefits and disadvantages of choosing Tempstar.

Tempstar Heat Pump PROs

Tempstar warranties are among the best on the market. Moreover, many include replacement of the entire heat pump if the compressor or condenser coil fails in the first 5-10 years, depending on model;
The Wi-Fi Observer control for the Deluxe Series heat pumps gives you the option of monitoring and adjusting your heating and cooling remotely using a smart phone;
The 4 Energy Star Tempstar heat pumps include single-stage, two-stage and variable-capacity models to fit your budget and performance preferences;
Installing an Energy Star Tempstar heat pump might be eligible for utility rebates from your energy provider. So, ask your installer or search rebates;
The three performance levels tend to match efficiency ratings – the highest-performing Deluxe 19 is also the most efficient. Therefore, heat pumps that run the most can also provide the best indoor climate control when you choose the right model for your climate;
The 13.7 HSPF heating efficiency of the TCH9 two-stage Tempstar heat pump is among the very best in the industry. It is an ideal unit for cutting heating costs where winters are long;
Tempstar uses a baked powder-coat finish on galvanized steel to produce an attractive case that resists corrosion and scratches;
The Performance 14 NH4H4 Tempstar heat pump is a compact model for installation where space is limited and tight;
The Performance 14 Coastal Design N4H4**C is one of just a few heat pumps designed to slow corrosion in the salt air of coastal communities;
Tempstar manufacturers furnaces, air handlers and air purifiers. They provide integrated performance and optimal efficiency when combined with Tempstar heat pumps;
Tempstar is a national brand. So, service and parts can be obtained wherever you live.

Tempstar Heat Pump CONs

The most efficient models, the TVH8 variable-capacity and the TCH9 two-stage, have a SEER rating of 19. That is several points below the Lennox XP25 and other super-efficient heat pumps. So, these Tempstar models aren’t a top choice where summer heat and humidity are extreme;
The loudest single-stage Tempstar heat pump models run at 69 decibels. The rate is slightly higher than the industry average for this class.

There’s not much to criticize with this and other ICP brands. They are well-made, efficient, reliable and competitively priced. Expect 15-20+ years of service from a Tempstar heat pump – the better the series, the longer it will run when properly maintained.

Things to Consider Before Purchasing a Tempstar Heat Pump

There are two keys to being satisfied with your Tempstar heat pump going forward. Choosing the right one for your needs and hiring a qualified installer with a track record of quality work.

The right heat pump for you will match the need for efficiency where you live. If summers and/or winters are extreme, then choosing an Energy Star-certified heat pump will keep energy use and cost under control. In those few areas of North America that have mild year-round climates, a 14-15 SEER model is sufficient since the unit won’t run much. This is true for heat pumps installed in part-time locations such as a guest apartment or vacation home. Reasons to choose a more efficient heat pump in mild climates are if you want the better comfort control of a two-stage or variable-capacity Tempstar heat pump or if lowering energy use as a means of living as green as possible is a high priority for you.
The second key to satisfaction, proper installation, is more crucial than the brand heat pump you select. We recommend getting estimates from several heating and air conditioning companies in your area that have a good reputation for quality and customer service. Talk to their representatives about the experience of the person or crew that will install your heat pump or HVAC system. That’s what is important. If the technicians are NATE-certified, that’s a plus.

Final Thoughts on Tempstar Heat Pumps

This brand gets high marks from homeowners for product variety, competitive cost and dependable performance, especially when properly installed. If Tempstar makes the short-list of brands you are considering, see our library of heat pump brand reviews to narrow the options and make your choice.

Our comprehensive reviews make us a one-stop source when researching HVAC equipment for home or business. If this Tempstar heat pump review has been useful, perhaps others would benefit sharing it with them