6 Common Problems That Affect Your Thermostat
If you find that your heat or air conditioning doesn’t seem to be working well, the cause may not be your HVAC system but your thermostat. Troubles with your home’s thermostat can prevent your HVAC from regulating the temperature to your liking. Learn about several ways your thermostat could be causing a problem with the climate in your home.
Direct Sunlight
If your thermostat is in the direct line of sunlight, it will produce a false reading of the temperature in your house and may power off in an attempt to cool your house. It may not provide enough heat to your home if the mechanism incorrectly indicates a temperature that is warmer than your interior actually is.
Heat or Drafts
If your thermostat is near a source of heat like a fireplace, radiator, or oven, it can also provide a false reading. This will also shut your thermostat off and cause your house to cool. Conversely, if your thermostat is located near a draft which indicates a cooler temperature than exists, it can lead to unnecessary heating of your home.
Dust and Particles
Image via Flickr by CORGI HomePlan
Although your thermostat may have a cover, dust can still accumulate which may affect its reading of indoor temperatures. Be sure to remove the cover and regularly dust your thermostat with a lint-free cloth or soft brush to avoid this problem.
Not Centrally Located
If you notice one area of the house that often seems to be cooler or warmer than the rest of your home, check your thermostat’s location. If it is not located in a neutral place like a hallway or central room, this could be the cause of the uneven temperatures. Relocating the thermostat may correct this imbalance.
Lost Power
When heat or air conditioning isn’t working, one of the quickest assessments is to check if the thermostat’s screen is dark. This could simply mean its batteries have died and need to be replaced. If new batteries don’t improve the situation or if you have an older thermostat that doesn’t require batteries, the wiring could be disconnected or frayed. If you installed the thermostat, be sure that you have wired it correctly or assign the task to a service technician.
Outdated
Technology has brought thermostats a long way in recent times. If your thermostat has been in your home since you moved in, it could be too old to manage your home’s climate, especially if your thermostat still uses mercury. Some older thermostats may not be compatible with your current heating and cooling system, especially if your HVAC unit is newer than your thermostat.
Many thermostat problems can be solved with the installation of a newer, modern version. Most of today’s thermostats are digital, programmable, and designed to help you save money and energy. Smart thermostats can adjust the temperature in your home from anywhere in the world using your smartphone. They can also track your energy usage to help you minimize energy costs. Consider the benefits of installing an efficient thermostat to regulate the climate in your home and ensure a comfortable environment for you and your family.
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