What are the Most Common Thermostat Problems?

Your home’s thermostat acts as the “brain” of your HVAC system. Without a functional thermostat, your heating and cooling system is useless. From programmable thermostats to smart thermostats, there are several models to choose from, but they all play the same important role – allowing you full control over your furnace or air conditioner. The thermostat doesn’t simply turn on and off your system, it helps to create the perfect indoor ambient temperature.

Unfortunately, just like all HVAC equipment, thermostats can break down or develop issues that affect how well they work. In our most recent blog, the technicians at Robinson Heating & Air Conditioning discuss common thermostat problems and what to look for. For thermostat repair and installation service, contact the professional technicians at Robinson today.

Common Thermostat Issues to Watch Out For

Low or Dead Batteries

If you own a battery-powered thermostat and it isn’t working properly or has a blank screen, the first thing to do is check and see if the batteries are dead. Open up the battery compartment and replace the old batteries. If your thermostat doesn’t turn back on after replacing the batteries, there’s another issue at play.

Faulty Wiring

Faulty wiring is a common thermostat problem that can cause the device to stop functioning properly, operate intermittently, or stop working altogether. Dealing with exposed wires is dangerous and potentially life-threatening. Make sure to shut all power to the circuit off before inspecting the wiring connected to your thermostat. Looking for any exposed or frayed wires should prompt a call to professionals. Damaged wires can cause overheating or short-circuiting, and a certified heating and cooling technician is needed to make the appropriate repair. If left neglected, the air conditioning or furnace systems can be impacted.

Poor Thermostat Location

Thermostats need to be installed in the appropriate location in your home to provide an accurate reading of the temperature. Thermostats should be located away from direct sunlight, drafts from windows and doors, and heat-producing devices to produce the right temperature setting. High humidity from bathrooms and kitchens can cause issues as well. 

Incorrect Temperature Settings

If the actual room temperature in your Middletown, OH home is 80 degrees, but your thermostat reads 68 degrees, something is off. Incorrect temperature settings can be caused by a malfunctioning thermostat sensor, an aging thermostat, a thermostat that isn’t level, and a unit that isn’t installed in the correct location.

Blown Fuse

If your hard-wired thermostat isn’t working at all, it may be due to a power issue. Check the circuit breaker to see if there’s a blown fuse or tripped circuit.

Aging Thermostat

Like all HVAC equipment, thermostats don’t last forever. Once your thermostat reaches 10 years of age, it’s more prone to malfunctioning and breaking down. It could be time to upgrade to a new programmable or smart thermostat.

Dirty Thermostat

Grime, dirt, and dust can eventually find their way into your thermostat’s housing, blocking the sensors and causing the unit to struggle to effectively gauge the correct temperature in your home. Remove the cover and clean the parts with a soft-bristled brush.

Should I Repair or Replace My Thermostat?

If you can’t fix your thermostat on your own, contact the HVAC professionals at Robinson Heating & Air Conditioning. We will inspect your unit and make an honest recommendation about whether repair or replacement is warranted. But generally speaking, consider buying a new thermostat if any of the following issues are occurring:

• Incorrect temperature readings
• HVAC system short cycling
• Rising energy bills
• The unit is over 10 years old
• Your home’s temperature doesn’t change
• Constantly shifting temperatures

Upgrading to a modern programmable or smart thermostat offers many conveniences. For example, with a programmable thermostat, you can pre-set your thermostat based on when you’re home or away for optimal energy savings. With a smart thermostat, you can pre-set the thermostat and do so much more! Smart thermostats allow you to control the temperature remotely. They can even learn your temperature preferences over time and make automatic adjustments. Contact Robinson today to learn more about our thermostat offerings.

Contact Robinson for Thermostat Repair and Installation in Middletown, OH

Your thermostat may be small, but it plays a big role in ensuring your home is at the right temperature. If you have a faulty thermostat, don’t hesitate to contact an HVAC professional at Robinson Heating & Air Conditioning for thermostat repair and thermostat installation service.