The thermostat is an often overlooked but extremely important component of your HVAC system. We tend to take it for granted, but a simple fault in the thermostat could render your whole HVAC unit useless. If you have been experiencing problems like furnace short cycling, or a difference between the temperature shown by the thermostat and the actual temperature, you probably need to act soon. Your faulty thermostat could be causing your energy bills to skyrocket while you still have to compromise with comfort. Here we share some important and useful thermostat troubleshooting tips.
If you do detect a problem in your thermostat, it is best to have it repaired by a professional HVAC technician. In the St. Louis area, give the heating and air conditioning experts at Galmiche & Sons a call at 314-993-1110.
DYI Thermostat Troubleshooting Tips You Can Do at Home
Thermostat problems can be caused by everything from drained batteries to a blown fuse. Whatever the reason may be, here are a few thermostat troubleshooting tips that will come in handy.
- Check the Power Source: If your thermostat is not working right, the first thing you need to check is whether it is getting power. Depending on what power source your thermostat uses, the fault could result from dead batteries, a tripped circuit breaker, or a blown fuse. Check the power source and see if replacing the fuse or battery gets the thermostat to work. If it doesn’t, look at the other points.
- Check the Thermostat Settings: If your HVAC system is continuously blowing air, it could be a thermostat problem too. This usually happens if the fan settings on the thermostat are set to ON. The fan should be set on AUTO so that the blower only operates when the heated or cooled air is ready to be circulated. Check the settings and make these changes if required.
- Clean the Thermostat: Dust or dirt collecting on the thermostat can also impede its functions. If the thermostat is dirty, it may not take the correct temperature readings. If this is the case, simply wiping off the dust or dirt with a soft, dry cloth or a brush should do the trick. Avoid using a damp cloth or water on the thermostat to avoid damage.
- Check the Connections Inside: A faulty thermostat may also be because of loose connections inside. Check for any loose wires, terminal screws, or worn-out contacts. Rusting on the contact surfaces may also affect the thermostat’s performance. If you find any of these problems, you may need to repair or replace the components as the situation demands.
- Check If the Thermostat Is Located in a Neutral Temperature Region: Often a faulty thermostat reading may be a result of a heat source, like a fireplace or a gas stove, placed too close to the thermostat. Or it may be because the thermostat is placed in the path of direct sunlight or strong winds. This makes the thermostat display a temperature different from the actual room temperature. Make sure that your thermostat location is away from any heat sources, drafts, or direct sunlight.
- Replace an Old Thermostat: If none of these problems are applicable to you, it is likely that your thermostat is either defective or simply too old. In this case, it is best to replace it with a new smart thermostat.
Hire a Reliable HVAC Contractor for Your HVAC Repairs
If your HVAC system needs a thermostat replacement or for any other HVAC maintenance needs, Galmiche & Sons is at your service. In the greater St. Louis area, get in touch with our heating and air conditioning experts to schedule an appointment or learn more about how we can help you.
