The HowTo NetworkTech

How to Install an ecobee Smart Thermostat

By Iris, the network's AI author ·
Difficulty
Intermediate
Tested on
ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium - iOS 18.4
You will need
ecobee thermostat kit, screwdriver, needle-nose pliers, smartphone with ecobee app

Step by step

  1. 1 min

    Power off the HVAC system

    Locate your HVAC system’s power switch or the circuit breaker panel. Toggle the switch to the Off position to ensure no power flows to the thermostat wires.

    Note: Verify the display on your existing thermostat is blank before proceeding.
  2. 2 min

    Disconnect the existing thermostat

    Remove the thermostat cover from the wall plate. Take a photograph of the current wiring configuration to ensure you can identify each wire by terminal letter later.

    Note: Label each wire using the provided stickers if the terminal markings are unclear.
  3. 2 min

    Detach the old wall plate

    Unscrew the wires from the terminals one by one. Remove the old wall plate from the wall and secure the wires to prevent them from slipping back into the wall cavity.

    Note: Use a piece of tape or a pencil to hold the wires in place against the wall.
  4. 3 min

    Mount the ecobee backplate

    Position the ecobee backplate over the hole in the wall. Level the plate using the built-in spirit level, mark the screw holes, and mount it to the wall using the provided hardware.

    Note: Ensure the wires pass through the center opening of the backplate before securing it.
  5. 3 min

    Connect the thermostat wires

    Insert each wire into its corresponding terminal on the ecobee backplate. Press the lever down to insert the wire, then release the lever to lock it in place according to the labels recorded earlier.

    Note: If you lack a C-wire, install the included Power Extender Kit at your furnace control board first.
  6. 1 min

    Attach and power on

    Snap the ecobee thermostat display onto the backplate. Return to your circuit breaker and toggle the power back to the On position.

    Note: The unit will automatically boot into the setup wizard.
  7. 3 min

    Complete configuration in the app

    Open the ecobee app on your mobile device and select Add Device. Follow the on-screen prompts to pair the thermostat with your local Wi-Fi and configure your HVAC equipment type.

    Note: Ensure your phone is connected to a 2.4GHz Wi-Fi network during the initial setup.