Is Your Thermostat Not Working? Read This

Is Your Thermostat Not Working? Read This

Thermostat Not Working

If your home isn’t the right temperature, the problem may not rest solely on your HVAC system. In fact, the problem may be with your thermostat. Most of the time, you can identify and correct a thermostat issue without the help of a technician.

 

How Do I Know It’s My Thermostat Not Working?

If your home isn’t the right temperature, the problem may not rest solely on your HVAC system. In fact, the problem may be with your thermostat. Most of the time, you can identify and correct a thermostat issue without the help of a technician.

 

How Do I Know It’s My Thermostat Not Working?

Common air conditioning issues that can be traced back to your thermostat include:

1. The AC or Heater Stops Running

When your HVAC system stops suddenly, check the thermostat display. If it’s dark, replace the batteries, reset a tripped breaker, or replace a blown fuse.

Is your thermostat still not working? Then shut off the breaker and:

  1. Remove the cover of the thermostat housing
  2. Clean any dirt or grime with a soft brush or canned air
  3. Check for/tighten any loose thermostat wire or terminal screw
  4. If any wires are corroded, replace them (if possible) or get a new thermostat.

2. Room Temperature Doesn’t Match the Thermostat Setting

Try the above steps to clean the inside of the unit. If you have a mechanical thermostat and accidentally jar it, try adjusting the position so it is level.

  • Manual thermostats have a part called an anticipator. It can freeze up, but you can get it unstuck by pushing gently on the arm connected to the round dial.

 

3. The AC Runs Continuously or Turns On and Off Frequently

The thermostat may be dirty, off-kilter, or its anticipator may be need to be calibrated. To lengthen the cycle, adjust the anticipator lever slightly (toward the word “longer”).

Another reason for a manual thermostat not working is the thermometer needs to be adjusted. The thermometer is located inside the housing. But you can adjust it by turning a small metal nib (or screwdriver slot) in back. It is located directly behind the front coil and mercury switch.

 The location of your thermostat can impact its performance as well. If it is placed near an exterior wall or fixture or appliance that generates heat, this can affect the readings and the unit can send the wrong signal to your HVAC system.

Make sure the thermostat is placed away from heat sources. It is best put in a room that is frequently used, to achieve an ideal comfort level.

 

When Should I Replace My Thermostat?

Replace your thermostat if it’s not working and:

  • It is more than 10 years old.
  • The temperature constantly shifts unexpectedly.
  • The temperature readings are consistently off.
  • Your energy bills rise inexplicably.
  • It doesn’t respond when you change settings.

If you need to replace your thermostat, do so prior to the start of the cold season. This gives you time to find a suitable thermostat for your home and learn its features. You can then be assured more reliable heating all season long.

 

Contact Ideal Tem

If your thermostat is not working, our team can help. We’ll repair or adjust it if possible. But if you have an older unit, our technicians can recommend newer systems such as the Bryant Housewise WiFi Thermostat or the T6 Pro Smart Thermostat, which can be controlled from your smartphone or tablet. Call 816-720-7803 to learn more.