What is the typical voltage used for a residential thermostat?

The typical voltage used for a residential thermostat is 24 volts. This lower voltage is chosen for safety reasons and efficiency in controlling heating and cooling systems. Most residential HVAC systems are designed to operate on this voltage, allowing for safe wiring and reduced risk of electrical shock. The 24-volt system generally comes from a step-down transformer that converts higher line voltages to an appropriate level for thermostats and control circuits.

Using 24 volts allows for a simpler and safer installation when compared to higher voltage systems like 120 volts or 240 volts, both of which are generally used for powering the HVAC systems themselves rather than for the low-voltage control circuits like a thermostat. Thus, the 24-volt system minimizes complications while ensuring effective temperature control within residential settings.