Common Thermostat Problems and How to Fix Them

 

If you live in Houston, TX, you know how important it is to have a functioning thermostat. In the summer, when temperatures can climb well above 90 degrees Fahrenheit, a broken thermostat can mean unbearable indoor heat. And in the winter, when the temperature can dip below freezing, a malfunctioning thermostat can lead to expensive energy bills. Fortunately, many common thermostat problems are relatively easy to fix. In this blog post, we'll go over some of the most common issues people experience with their thermostats and provide step-by-step instructions for fixing them.

Incorrect Temperature Readings

One of the most frustrating thermostat problems is when the temperature reading on the display doesn't match the actual temperature in the room. This can lead to the air conditioning or heating system turning on and off at the wrong times, which can be uncomfortable and wasteful. Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to fix this issue.

First, check to make sure the thermostat is placed in a location that accurately reflects the temperature of the room. For example, if the thermostat is in direct sunlight or near a drafty window, the temperature reading may be inaccurate. Move the thermostat to a more neutral location, such as a hallway or interior wall.

If the thermostat is in the right location but still giving incorrect readings, you may need to calibrate it. Some thermostats have a calibration function built-in, which you can access through the menu. Follow the instructions in the user manual to adjust the calibration.

Failure to Turn On or Off

Another common issue is when the thermostat fails to turn the heating or cooling system on or off. This can be especially frustrating when the temperature is too hot or too cold. There are several potential causes for this problem.

First, check the thermostat's batteries. If the batteries are dead, the thermostat may not have enough power to communicate with the heating or cooling system. Replace the batteries with fresh ones and see if that solves the problem.

If the batteries are fine, the next step is to check the wiring. Make sure the wires connecting the thermostat to the heating or cooling system are secure and undamaged. If any wires are loose or frayed, they may need to be replaced.

Finally, the problem may be with the heating or cooling system itself. Check the system to see if it's running properly. If it's not, there may be a problem with the furnace or air conditioner that requires professional attention.

Problems with the Display

The thermostat's display is an important feature, as it allows you to see the temperature and adjust the settings. If the display is not working properly, it can be frustrating and difficult to use the thermostat. Here are some potential fixes for display problems:

Make sure the thermostat is getting power. If the display is completely blank, the thermostat may not be receiving any power. Check the batteries and wiring to make sure everything is connected properly.

Clean the display. If the display is dim or hard to read, it may be covered in dust or grime. Use a soft, dry cloth to gently clean the screen.

Reset the thermostat. If the display is freezing or behaving erratically, you may need to reset the thermostat. Follow the instructions in the user manual to do a factory reset.

Loose Wiring

Loose wiring is a common problem with thermostats, especially older models. Over time, the wires can become loose or disconnected, which can cause the thermostat to malfunction. To fix this problem, you'll need to open up the thermostat and check the wiring connections.