Installing a modern smart thermostat in a historic home can feel like a clash between two worlds. Homeowners often worry about compatibility with older HVAC systems, the lack of modern wiring, and the desire to avoid damaging period-specific plaster or woodwork. The good news is that achieving energy efficiency and smart control is now entirely possible and affordable, even in century-old residences, by choosing the right thermostat and smart installation techniques.

The Historic Home Challenge: The Missing C-Wire

The primary hurdle in retrofitting a smart thermostat into a historic home is the lack of a “C-wire” (Common wire). Older, two-wire thermostat systems often only include wires for heating (R) and fan (G), relying on batteries for power or “power stealing”—methods insufficient for the constant power draw of a Wi-Fi-enabled smart device.

• The Affordable Solution: No C-Wire Required Models: The most cost-effective solution is choosing smart thermostats specifically designed to