Whether your home uses a central heating and air system or a furnace, thermostat issues can affect comfort and increase your energy bills. There are several problems that can make the temperature at home too hot or cold. It may seem like something is wrong with your air conditioner or HVAC system. But since the thermostat controls the entire system, the causes of your troubles can be due to a simple malfunction. Here are some common issues to look for to determine if you need thermostat replacement or repair:
Unresponsive Thermostat
You press the screen or a button and nothing happens. To determine if the thermostat is the source of the problem, try rebooting the device or changing the batteries. However, if this doesn’t get it working again, defective electrical wiring or incorrect installation may be behind your troubles. To properly address these, you’ll need an experienced HVAC contractor to inspect the thermostat and system to determine the best solution.
Thermostat Location/Positioning
Where your thermostat is placed in the house can impact its performance. It should not be in direct sunlight or near a heat source (such as an oven, stove, or fireplace), which could cause inaccurate readings. The unit may estimate interior temperatures as being much warmer than they are. As a result, the air conditioner may run longer than necessary, or your heater may shut off or not turn on at all. A thermostat should be placed no more than five feet from a door; yet it should be centrally located.
Old Thermostat
As with most HVAC components, the older your thermostat is, the more likely it is to be faulty and require service. To address this concern, an older thermostat should be replaced, which provides the opportunity to install a digital thermostat or programmable model. Newer options eliminate the problems you are having, last for many years, and allow for more precise control of indoor temperatures. Some can even be controlled remotely from your smartphone.
Uncleaned/Dirty Thermostat
Dust and debris can build up inside the thermostat over time. An accumulation of tiny particles and grime can cause inaccurate temperature readings. Symptoms of a problem include short cycling of your HVAC system, or the A/C may run continuously. This is an issue you can easily correct by cleaning the unit. Remove the plastic housing and use a soft brush to wipe away any dirt or dust you find. If that was the source of the problem, your thermostat should now be working again.
Uncharged Batteries
Battery power is used to monitor temperature and send messages to your HVAC system to control heating and cooling cycles. If your thermostat is battery-powered, a low battery can affect its operation. This is another problem you don’t need a technician for. You might see a low power warning on the screen or that’s indicated by a light. The batteries can be replaced by opening the cover and switching out the old batteries for new ones.
Contact The AC Hero
The AC Hero is a professional HVAC contractor that can provide thermostat replacement, address air conditioner or air distribution issues, and provide emergency repairs 24/7. We are providing installation and other services during the coronavirus pandemic, following the latest safety guidelines to protect our customers and technicians in Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas, and surrounding areas. To request service or learn more about our warranty and financing options, call us at 817-557-7586.
