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Is ecobee a power stealing thermostat?

Published in Smart Thermostats 2 mins read

Is ecobee a power stealing thermostat?

No, ecobee thermostats are not power-stealing devices. They are designed to operate without relying on this method for power.

Understanding Power Stealing in Thermostats

"Power stealing" refers to a method some smart thermostats use to draw minimal electrical power directly from the low-voltage control wires of an HVAC system. This typically occurs when a dedicated common wire (C-wire), which provides continuous power, is not available at the thermostat location. Instead, the thermostat might draw power by briefly interrupting the circuit for heating, cooling, or fan operation. While this can allow the thermostat to function without a C-wire, it can potentially lead to issues such as:

  • Short cycling: The HVAC system turns on and off too frequently.
  • Intermittent operation: The thermostat or HVAC system behaves unpredictably.
  • System malfunctions: Components of the HVAC system may not receive consistent voltage, leading to wear or failure.

Why Ecobee Thermostats Avoid Power Stealing

Ecobee thermostats, including models like the ecobee3 and subsequent generations, are specifically engineered to avoid using power-stealing techniques. This design philosophy is central to ensuring both the reliability of the thermostat itself and the proper functioning of the connected heating and cooling equipment.

By providing a continuous and dedicated power supply (typically through a C-wire or an included Power Extender Kit for systems without a C-wire), ecobee thermostats offer several key advantages:

  • Enhanced Reliability: The thermostat receives a stable power supply, significantly reducing the likelihood of sudden and unexpected failure. This is particularly crucial during periods of extreme weather, such as very hot or very cold conditions, when HVAC systems are under increased stress.
  • Optimized HVAC Performance: Avoiding power stealing prevents potential disruptions to the HVAC system's electrical signals, ensuring it operates as intended without unintended cycling or strain.
  • Consistent Smart Features: A stable power source allows all the smart features, such as remote sensors, Wi-Fi connectivity, and schedule programming, to function consistently and accurately without power-related interruptions.

This commitment to a reliable power source underscores ecobee's focus on providing a dependable smart home climate control solution that safeguards the longevity and performance of your entire heating and cooling system.