Sensi™ Touch Smart Thermostat Installation Guide
Models: 1F95U-42WF series, ST75 series, NH-AWIFI, OH-AWIFI
Version: January 2020
©2020 Emerson Electric Co. All rights reserved
R-5021
Before You Begin: Gather Information and Tools
Gather the following information and tools before starting the installation for a smoother process:
- Wi-Fi Network Name/SSID (must be a 2.4 GHz network)
- Wi-Fi Network Password
- Screwdriver
- Hardware included in the Sensi Touch Smart Thermostat packaging
Download the Sensi App
The Sensi Touch Smart Thermostat is a Wi-Fi enabled device. To install and configure your thermostat correctly, you must use the Sensi app. Download the Sensi app to your smartphone or tablet. It is a free download.
Note: The Sensi app requires the following Operating System (OS) software:
- Android (Google Play) version 5.0 or later
- iOS (Apple) version 10.0 or later
Note for iOS users: In the iOS App Store, the Sensi App will ONLY appear on an "iPhone only" search. On an iPad, change the search criteria in the App Store.
[App Store Link] [Google Play Link]
Create an Account
When you download the Sensi app, you will be prompted to create an account. This is required to access your thermostat remotely and use all Sensi features. Use a valid email address and a password of your choosing. Remember this email address and password, as your Sensi thermostat will be linked to it.
Note: The "Install a device" option is only for HomeKit installations. Creating an account is necessary to access all available features.
Installation Process
Once the Sensi app is downloaded and your account is created, you are ready to install the thermostat to your wall and connect it to Wi-Fi.
If no thermostats are registered, tap the plus (+) sign to add a thermostat.
First, choose the thermostat you purchased. The Sensi Touch Smart Thermostat option applies to the following model numbers:
- 1F95U-42WF series
- ST75 series
- NH-AWIFI, OH-AWIFI
Note: You can check your model number on the back of the thermostat faceplate.
Install Path Selection
After creating an account, signing in, and choosing your model, the app will ask if the thermostat is already on the wall. Choose either:
- "No, it needs to be installed": This option guides you through the entire installation process, including wiring and Wi-Fi connection. Select this if you did not have the thermostat professionally installed.
- "Yes, it is on the wall": This option is for connecting your existing thermostat to Wi-Fi only. Select this if a professional installed your thermostat and you only need to connect it to your home Wi-Fi network.
Step-by-Step Installation (If "No, it needs to be installed" is selected)
Gather Tools and Package Contents
Ensure you have all necessary tools and package contents before proceeding.
Turn Off Power
CAUTION: Turn off the power to your heating and air conditioning system at the fuse box or circuit breaker before handling thermostat wires.
Remove Old Thermostat Cover
Remove the cover using a screwdriver or by pressing the pressure latch. Some covers pull off, while others require a screwdriver to release.
Photograph Your Wiring
IMPORTANT: The Sensi app will prompt you to take a picture of your existing thermostat and wiring. This photo can be helpful for troubleshooting with technical support and will be saved to your camera roll.
Handle Jumper Wires
Sensi thermostats have a built-in jumper wire. You will not need any jumper wires from your old unit. Remove any jumper wires from your old thermostat.
Choose Wire Terminals
Identify and select the terminal labels that have wires attached to them on your old thermostat. The app will indicate if you have a valid configuration.
Note: If you receive an invalid configuration message, check compatibility at sensi.emerson.com/en-us/compatibility. Sensi Touch requires a C-wire.
Select System Type
Choose the type of heating and cooling system you have (e.g., Gas, Electric, Boiler/Radiant).
Label Your Wires
Using the provided wire label stickers, label each wire by removing one at a time and applying the corresponding label. This ensures correct wiring.
Disconnect Wires and Remove Base
After labeling all wires, carefully remove the old thermostat base from the wall.
Install Sensi Base
Mount the new Sensi base to the wall using the provided mounting screws and anchors, if necessary.
Connect the Wires
Insert the labeled wires into the corresponding terminals on the Sensi base. Push the wires into the terminal slots and use a screwdriver to secure each wire in place.
Attach Cover
Push the front display onto the thermostat base. If you used the "Backlight" feature during installation, ensure the switch is turned "Off" so you can control it from the display.
Turn On Power
Turn the power to your heating and air conditioning system back on at the fuse box or circuit breaker.
Connecting to Wi-Fi
This section covers connecting your thermostat to your Wi-Fi network. If you selected "No, it needs to be installed," the app guided you through installation and wiring first. If you chose "Yes, it is on the wall," or have already wired the thermostat, the app will proceed directly to Wi-Fi connection.
Broadcast Sensi Network
On the thermostat, navigate to Menu, then Wi-Fi. Depending on your Sensi version, you may see "Set up new network" or two icons. If two icons appear, you can bypass HomeKit setup.
Connect Your Sensi Thermostat to Your Wi-Fi Network with the Sensi App
Follow the step-by-step instructions within the Sensi app. The Wi-Fi connection process may vary slightly based on your device's operating system (iOS/Android), Sensi app version, and Sensi thermostat version.
Name Thermostat
You can select a pre-defined name or create a custom name for your thermostat. Press "Next" to continue.
Register Thermostat
After successfully connecting to Wi-Fi, the app will prompt you to register the thermostat. You can use the "Locate Me" option or manually enter your street address, city, state, zip code, country, and time zone. Press "Next" to continue.
Contractor Information
If a contractor installed your thermostat and is a Sensi partner, they can input their phone number here. If no registered number is available, simply press "Next" to continue.
Start Using Sensi
Congratulations on successfully installing and registering your Sensi Thermostat! Press "Start Using Sensi Thermostat" to open the main app screen.
Connecting to Wi-Fi Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues connecting to Wi-Fi, try the following:
- Ensure the Sensi app is updated to the latest version.
- Reboot your smartphone.
- Reboot your router by unplugging it for a few minutes and plugging it back in.
- For iPhone users: Ensure Keychain is On and Home Data is allowed for the Sensi app.
- For Android users: In your phone's Advanced Wi-Fi Settings, turn off "Switch to mobile data" (or similar options like "Smart Network Switch" or "Avoid poor connections"). You may also consider turning off "Mobile Data" completely during setup.
- Try using another smartphone or tablet. Download the Sensi app and sign in with your existing account credentials.
Reconnecting to Wi-Fi
If you replace your router or change your Wi-Fi network password, you will need to reconnect your thermostat. Refer to the Sensi support article for specific instructions: sensi.emerson.com/en-us/support/reconnecting-sensi-thermostat-to-wifi
Troubleshooting: Blank or Flashing Display
If your Sensi Touch Smart Thermostat's touchscreen is blank or only flashes after installation, it likely means the thermostat is not receiving sufficient power.
Sensi Touch requires a "C" wire for continuous power. The battery-powered light in the sub-base is only for installation and lasts about an hour.
I Don't Have a Wire in the "C" Terminal
Sensi requires a "C" wire. If you lack one, consult Sensi's "C" wire videos for DIY installation at sensi.emerson.com/en-us/c-wire.
For heat-only systems, an external transformer might be an option. Learn more by searching "external transformer" on the Sensi support site: sensi.emerson.com/en-us/support.
I Have a Wire in the "C" Terminal
- If you performed a DIY "C" wire connection, verify it's connected to the "C" terminal on both the thermostat and your system's control board.
- Locate your air handler's control board and trace the "C" wire from the thermostat to ensure a secure connection at the system control board.
- Gently tug the "C" wire at the system control board to confirm it's securely screwed into the terminal.
- Gently tug all wires at the thermostat to ensure they are secure in the sub-base terminal block.
- Using a voltmeter set to AC, measure the voltage between RH (or RC) and C at the thermostat. You should have between 20-30VAC. Less than 20VAC may prevent the thermostat from turning on.
- Confirm your breakers are on. If they are, try resetting them.
HVAC Configuration Menu
If the Sensi app did not correctly configure your thermostat, or if you wish to verify settings, you can manually configure it. Learn more by searching "configure" on the Sensi support site: sensi.emerson.com/en-us/support.
Accessing Your Sensi Thermostat from Other Devices
Log in to your Sensi account with your email and password to control all registered thermostats. Sharing your account credentials allows others to access and control your thermostats.
Note: You can change your email address and password within the app. There is no limit to the number of devices that can access a thermostat.
Forgot Password
If you forget your Sensi account password, click "Forgot Password" on the app's login screen. A temporary password will be sent to your registered email address.
Installing Multiple Thermostats
To install additional thermostats, follow the same process in the Sensi app. From the main screen, press the + sign to add another thermostat to your account.
Accessing Account Information
The Account section allows you to manage email preferences, update your account information, and change the email address associated with your Sensi account.
- For iOS: Tap the person icon in the upper right corner.
- For Android: Tap the three dots in the upper right corner.
Technical Support
For assistance with connecting your Sensi thermostat or any other issues, contact the Sensi Technical Support team:
- Website: sensi.emerson.com/en-us/support
- Phone: (888) 605.7131
- Email: support@sensicomfort.com
Wiring Diagrams and Configuration Reference
Single Stage or Multi-Stage System (No Heat Pump) with Two Transformers
For systems with separate RC and RH wires, clip the internal RC/RH jumper located on the back of the thermostat.
Heat Pump Systems
Ensure the internal jumper between RC and RH (located on the back of the thermostat) is set correctly for your heat pump system.
Configuration Menu Items Reference
Menu Item | Description | Options |
---|---|---|
Outdoor Equipment | Select AC or Heat Pump equipment and the number of stages. Set to AC1 for single-stage systems or HP1/HP2 for single/multi-stage heat pumps. | AC1/AC2/HP1/ HP2/None |
Indoor Equipment | Select furnace type: electric or gas, or fan only. Set to EL1 for single-stage electric, or GA1/GA2 for single/multi-stage gas systems. | GA1/GA2/EL1/EL2/Fan |
Reversing Valve Position | Energizes the reversing valve in Cooling (O/B). Some manufacturers (e.g., Rheem) use the B terminal, energizing in heating. For 3-wire zone hydronic systems, set to Z. | O/B/6/None |
Additional Accessories | ||
Humidifier (wired to thermostat) | If a humidifier is wired to the thermostat, change the setting to YES. | Yes/No |
Dehumidifier (wired to thermostat) | If a dehumidifier is wired to the thermostat, change the setting to YES. | Yes/No |
Wiring Diagram Explanation
The diagrams illustrate the connections between the thermostat terminals and the system configuration, including single-stage and multi-stage heat pumps, and their relationship to the heating and cooling transformers.
Key Terminal Functions:
- RC/RH: Power for Cooling/Heating. Clip internal jumper if using separate transformers.
- C: Common wire (24 VAC). Required for Sensi Touch.
- Y/Y2: Cooling stages.
- W/W1/W2: Heating stages.
- G: Fan control.
- O/B: Reversing valve for heat pumps.
- L: Heat Pump "L" Terminal Connection.
System Configuration Details:
- Single Stage AC: GA1, EL1
- Multi-Stage AC: AC2, EL2
- Single Stage Heat Pump: HP1
- Multi-Stage Heat Pump: HP2
- Furnace Types: Gas (GA1/GA2), Electric (EL1/EL2)
- Accessories: Humidifier, Dehumidifier
Transformer Connections: Diagrams show 120 VAC input to 24 VAC transformers (Heating and Cooling), with connections to the thermostat terminals.