Sign up ×

I am installing a new programable thermostat. In trying to cut power to the old one I have tried a couple of things but not sure I have done enough to cut all power. One, I shut off the furnace breaker. Two, there is a switch in the attic on the furnace. I have turned it off as well. My problem is that the digital read out and back light are still on on the unit.

share|improve this question
It probably has batteries. –  Steven Jan 6 '13 at 21:00

1 Answer 1

See if you can open the old unit and check for batteries. Many of them have them in case of a power failure. If you also have another air conditioning unit, you will want to throw the breaker or pull the fuse for it as well. My system at my old house had two fuse boxes mounted outside the unit as well as another breaker in the box where the main power came in. I definitely had a unique setup, but I'm sure there are others just as unique.

I hope that helps!

share|improve this answer
The "fuse box" at the unit in your setup was likely a disconnecting means (or serviceman disconnect). It's common (and required in some places) to have an electrical disconnect near the HVAC unit where it is not in "line of sight" to the main service disconnect. This is a safety feature that allows servicemen to be sure the power is off, and will stay off while they work. –  Tester101 Jan 7 '13 at 13:26

Your Answer


