How Much Does Thermostat Installation or Replacement Cost?

Thermostat Prices by Type

How much is a thermostat? Gone are the days when your only choice for a new thermostat was a metal box with a little wheel you turned manually to change the temperature. Selecting the best smart thermostat for your home will depend on your preferences. 

Today, we have many more choices with many more features, including smart thermostats, averaging as low as $15 to $500 or more, not including the labor to install them. The type of thermostat you choose affects the price and the number of features it comes with.

Mechanical/Manual/Non-Programmable Thermostat

For the lowest price at $15 to $35 per unit, you can still get the old-fashioned, manual residential or commercial thermostat that functions entirely by moving a small needle or dial left and right to select the temperature. Remember that manual thermostats from 2006 or earlier usually contain mercury, a toxic metal. Newer models don't use mercury. 

This will be your least expensive option, but it'll also come with the fewest features. For example, you’ll have to switch it from heating to cooling and vice versa if you have both heat and air conditioning.

Non-Programmable Electronic Thermostat 

Electronic yet non-programmable thermostats cost about $20 to $50 per unit. They install just as easily as the standard manual types but offer a more precise setting ability with few other features. While it must be turned on and off and switched manually, the digital display can make it easier to select a specific temperature.

Electronic Programmable Thermostats

Electronic programmable thermostats cost around $20 to $150 for most units. If you add internet connectivity, the price can jump to about $350. Electronic programmable thermostats include smart Wi-Fi-enabled models. 

Basic models, which run up to about $50, include no connectivity but the ability to set the HVAC to different temperatures throughout the week. Smart models can learn your preferences without the need to program them. Wi-Fi-enabled models, which include most smart units, can be controlled from anywhere with internet access or cell service. 

Features include the following:

• Ability to set heating and cooling options

• Program temperatures according to preset weekday, weekend, and weeklong programs 

• Numerous programs set for days at a time, helping control homeowners' HVAC costs

• May illuminate for easy access in the dark 

• Touch screens

Wi-Fi Thermostat

Wi-Fi thermostats, a type of programmable thermostat, costs around $100 to $350. They connect to your home network and allow you to control them from anywhere with internet access and often through an app on most phones. If your heating system is Wi-Fi-enabled, these will often control them without hard-wiring them in.

Smart Thermostat 

Now that many people use a smartphone, home and business thermostat technology has been updated to include models you can operate remotely. Smart thermostats cost approximately $100 to $500 or more. Whole-home smart systems that include thermostats and other features might exceed $1,000. Although they cost more, they can learn and adjust automatically to help save you 10% to 15% on utility bills, or about $140 per year. 

Here are some other benefits of smart thermostats: 

• Can "learn" your preferences as you use it, essentially automatically setting the thermostat 

• Many functional options 

• Best suited for homeowners with a consistent schedule because consistency will ensure programmed temperatures accurately reflect the homeowner's preferences 

• Usually attached to Wi-Fi remote management and monitoring, even when you’re on vacation

• Wiring and setup are more advanced

• Can save energy and money 

Thermostat Replacement Cost Factors

Although thermostat replacement costs don't vary much from project to project, some factors might raise or lower the price a little. 

Labor

Most local electricians can install or replace a home, apartment, or business thermostat in two hours or less at around $65 to $100 per hour, for a total labor cost of less than $200. Whether you opt for a modern, digital model or a simple, manual one, the installation costs won’t differ significantly. It's still an electrical job, regardless of your thermostat choice.

Number of Units and Zones

If you need multiple units installed in your home, ask your pro what the price would be to put them in all at once. Although the overall charge may be higher, the per unit rate will almost always be considerably lower if a pro only needs to make one trip to your home.

To set different temperatures for different home areas using one HVAC unit, you'll need a multizoned system with electronic baffles. On top of the price of the units, you'll need to factor in material and labor costs. Baffle charges will vary based on your home's duct sizes. In addition, factor in labor for both a licensed HVAC professional near you and an electrician since this job is too complicated to do yourself.

Repairs

Although unlikely, you may need to make some minor repairs to your home, such as cutting small holes in drywall to run wires. But this is rare, and you’ll likely pay around $50 to $150 to patch a small hole or two. In this case, you might consider installing a wireless smart model. 

New vs. Replacement

The main cost difference between a new and a replacement is the wiring. You'll pay an extra $100 to $200 to run wires to your HVAC system. In cases like this, it's generally better to spring for a smart home system that connects wirelessly to your furnace and AC unit. 

Accessories and Add-Ons

Modern accessories include smart home systems like hubs, lights, locks, and even window shades. Smart home costs range from $50 to $300 for each item, which can quickly add up to a smart home system cost of $1,500 or more. 

• Alexa Hub: $50–$250

• Google Nest Hub: $150–$250

• Smart locks: $100–$300

• Cameras: $100–$250

Thermostat Prices by Brand

Popular models in every category and price range can be ordered online or purchased at your local home improvement store.

Oven, Dryer, and Water Heater Thermostats

Appliances also include thermostats. While these internal units are relatively inexpensive, they can be challenging to install. For example, replacing a thermostat on a water heater costs between $100 and $300. Therefore, consult a professional for appliance installation costs.

Energy Cost Savings

Although both digital/programmable and smart models cost more upfront than a manual one, the more expensive version of a programmable thermostat could save a homeowner as much as $180 per year on energy bills. Overall, you'll be more comfortable and spend less time adjusting your home or apartment thermostat with a digital model. Program it for your comfort and schedule.

In some areas of the country, like Florida and California, pilot programs exist in which smart models receive wireless signals from the utility company. These units then adjust the temperature according to the price of electricity at different times of the day. At a rate of about $0.70 per hour, reducing air conditioning usage for just an hour per day may save the average homeowner approximately $65 to $110 in just one summer.

DIY Thermostat Installation or Hire a Pro

Leave electrical work to a professional to prevent injury or damage. However, those who are mechanically inclined can often install a standard manual or electronic thermostat by following the instructions that come with the device. You can also easily install wireless thermostats if your heating or cooling system is Wi-Fi compatible or you have an adapter. 

If you have no skill or experience with electrical tasks, are adding a smart thermostat, or are dealing with unusual circumstances (like multizone baffles, whole-home humidifiers, or dual-fuel systems), consult a licensed home thermostat installer near you or HVAC pro. While it may cost more upfront, ensuring the job is done right can save you time and money on repairs and damages in the long run.