5 Common Thermostat Issues Affecting Your Home’s Comfort

HVAC problems don’t always mean expensive repairs and replacements. Sometimes, the problem is as simple as a disconnected thermostat. Let’s take a look at some common thermostat issues that may be affecting your home’s comfort.

How Do You Know Your Thermostat Isn’t Working?

Depending on the exact problem, you may not always be able to tell if your HVAC problem is a thermostat one. However, the following three things may indicate that your thermostat needs to be repaired.

• The heating or cooling in your home is uneven.
• The face or display of the thermostat is non-responsive.
• The HVAC system does not respond when you use the thermostat.

What’s Wrong With Your Thermostat?

Your thermostat plays an important role in the heating and cooling process. After all, it is the tool that signals your furnace or air conditioner to turn on and to change the temperature of your home. That signal may be disrupted for any of the following reasons.

1. It is located near a heat source.

If your thermostat is located near a heat register or a window with direct sunlight, it may falsely read the home’s temperature. In order for your thermostat to send the proper commands to your air conditioner or furnace, it must maintain a proper reading of the temperature around it.

2. It is outdated.

Just like your HVAC system itself, your thermostat can become outdated and useless. Most thermostats last around a decade before they begin throwing in the towel.

3. Dirt and debris have made it non-functional.

Over time, dirt, dust, and other particles can build up within your thermostat, intercepting the signal between your thermostat and HVAC system. To clean your thermostat, remove it from your wall and gently wash the inside with a soft cloth or brush.

4. There is a wiring issue.

An electric thermostat can become disconnected by way of a loose wire. Make sure that each part of your HVAC system is receiving power.

5. Batteries need to be changed.

This might seem like an obvious problem, but many times a thermostat will quit working simply because it needs new batteries. Make sure you check this before anything else. It will save you a lot of frustration down the road.

Other Reasons Your HVAC System May Not Be Working

Remember, your thermostat is only one factor. Your HVAC system could be failing for many other reasons, including these.

1. It needs to be tuned up.

You should inspect your HVAC system yourself every month or two. Most HVAC systems require annual tune-ups to keep everything in proper working order. If it has been a few years since your system’s last tune-up, it may be time to contact a professional.

2. Your air filters are dirty.

Clogged air filters can prevent clean air from circulating. Not only does this stunt the efficiency of your system’s heating and cooling, it also reduces indoor air quality.

3. It is old and outdated.

If your system is old, tired, and outdated, your only option might be to put it out of its misery. The average lifespan of an HVAC system is 15-20 years, and then a replacement usually costs less than continuing to repair it.

4. It requires proper maintenance.

Proper HVAC maintenance is vital to increasing your system’s lifespan and preventing small problems from becoming bigger. Cut back on repair costs by caring for your HVAC system.

What Can IAQ Do to Help?

If you have any further questions, contact Indoor Air Quality today. We serve homeowners in Highlands Ranch and throughout the Denver Metro Area. Our highest priority is the comfort of your home.