DIY vs Professional Installation
DIY vs Professional Installation
Mysa for Baseboards connects to high-voltage (120/240V) wiring. This guide helps you decide whether to install it yourself or hire a licensed electrician.
Important: Check Local Building Codes
Some regions require a licensed electrician to install line-voltage thermostats. Before starting, check your local building codes and regulations. Even if DIY is permitted in your area, hiring a professional ensures the work meets code requirements.
Warning Working with high-voltage wiring can be dangerous if you're not experienced. If you're unsure about any step, stop and contact a licensed electrician.
You Can Install It Yourself If...
| Condition | Notes |
|---|---|
| You have an existing wall thermostat | Mysa replaces wall thermostats, not dials on heaters |
| You're comfortable turning off power and verifying it's off | Use a voltage tester — never assume power is off |
| Your existing thermostat has clear wiring | Take a photo before disconnecting |
| You have 4+ wires in your gang box | Two bundles — line in and load out |
| You know your heater's voltage (120V or 240V) | Check the rating plate on your heater |
| Local codes permit DIY electrical work | Some regions require licensed electricians |
| You have basic electrical tools | Screwdriver, wire strippers, voltage tester |
When to Hire an Electrician
Call a licensed electrician if:
- Local building codes require it
- You're not sure if your power is truly off
- Your existing wiring is unclear, damaged, or doesn't match standard colors
- You only see 2 wires — check for tucked wires first, then contact install@getmysa.com
- You have multiple heaters on one circuit and aren't sure about total load
- You're replacing a double pole thermostat and want to confirm code compliance
- You're uncomfortable working with 120/240V wiring
Mysa Wiring Is Different From Standard Thermostats
Mysa for Baseboards requires correct wiring connections — line, load, and neutral (on 120V systems) must connect to the correct wire leads. Many older thermostats simply break the circuit and don't care which wire goes where. Mysa needs dedicated power to run its display and Wi-Fi, so each connection matters.
Common installation mistakes:
- Thermostat won't power on: The L1 (line) supply wire isn't connected to Mysa's L1 lead. This wire brings power from the breaker and is usually black.
- Heat won't shut off: The heater wire is connected to L1 instead of Load. Heater wires should connect between Mysa Load and L2/N — not to L1.
- Skipping the neutral wire (120V systems): Your old thermostat may not have used a neutral, but Mysa requires it. Look for a capped white wire in your gang box.
- H2 error code: Mysa didn't detect a heater between Load and L2/N. Check that wires are secure in the wire nuts — as more wires go into a wire nut, connections can come loose.
Tip The included user manual has wiring diagrams for both 120V and 240V systems. Review it before starting installation.
Safety First
Warning Mysa for Baseboards connects to high-voltage wiring. Incorrect installation can cause electrical shock, fire, or damage to your heater and thermostat.
Regardless of who installs your thermostat:
- Always turn off power at the breaker before touching any wires
- Use a voltage tester to confirm power is off — never assume
- Never work on live wires under any circumstances
- Follow the wiring diagrams provided with your Mysa
What an Electrician Will Do
A licensed electrician can:
- Verify your heater's voltage and wattage
- Confirm total load if you have multiple heaters on one circuit
- Ensure wiring meets local electrical codes
- Replace the thermostat quickly and safely
- Provide documentation if needed for permits or insurance
Tip Show your electrician the wiring guide included with your Mysa. Installation typically takes 15–20 minutes for a professional.
User Manuals
Get Support
Not sure if you should DIY? Take a photo of your existing thermostat wiring and heater rating plate, then contact our team for guidance.
Use the Mysa Compatibility Checker to verify your system works with Mysa for Baseboards.
Email: install@getmysa.com