9 Signs You Need Thermostat Repair
Signs you need thermostat repair can be hard to distinguish from other HVAC problems. Others are more symptomatic of a controller issue. If your heating or cooling system isn’t working properly, it’s not always because a major component has failed. Fortunately, thermostat services such as repair or replacement are relatively simple and inexpensive.
1. The AC or Heater Runs Non-Stop
2. Your HVAC System Won’t Turn On
3. Your Heater or AC Doesn’t Complete a Full Cycle
4. Temperatures Vary Throughout Your Home
5. The Temperature Constantly Fluctuates
6. The Thermostat Doesn’t Respond
7. The Display Screen Is Off or Doesn’t Respond
8. Set and Actual Temperature Readings Don’t Match
9. Scheduled Settings Keep Getting Lost
Has My Thermostat Gone Bad?
Thermostats remain reliable for only a finite amount of time. Eventually, they wear out and parts can go bad. Call a professional if you notice the following signs you might need thermostat repair:
1. The AC or Heater Runs Non-Stop
A thermostat problem can manifest as an issue with HVAC system performance. Faulty thermostat wiring or a miscalibration can prevent signals from reaching the system. Or, incorrect signals can be sent.
Therefore, an AC unit or furnace may not shut off when the set temperature is reached. If your HVAC system has been running constantly, switch the thermostat off. If it continues to run, the switch may have a mechanical defect, or the thermostat wiring has gone bad.
2. Your HVAC System Won’t Turn On
The thermostat signals the system when to run. If your air conditioning or heating unit won’t turn on, the electrical wiring that lets the controller communicate with the system has probably failed. An HVAC unit cannot function if it doesn’t receive messages from the thermostat. If the system stops running, switch the mode (cooling to heating or heating to cooling). It should turn on; if not, you likely need a thermostat repair.
3. Your Heater or AC Doesn’t Complete a Full Cycle
Short cycling can be a sign of various problems. A failing thermostat is one of them. If not fixed, the issue can prevent your home from reaching or staying at a comfortable temperature. Aside from discomfort, it can cause your HVAC system to use more electricity and cause components to wear out more quickly. Therefore, energy and repair costs can both increase.
4. Temperatures Vary Throughout Your Home
If your HVAC system is working properly, the temperature from room to room should be about the same. However, a thermostat problem can cause your AC or heater to run irregularly. This prevents rooms farthest away from getting enough cooled or heated air. Temperatures should only differ significantly if you have a zoned HVAC system that lets you program a different temperature for each room.
5. The Temperature Constantly Fluctuates
Another sign your thermostat isn’t working correctly is if the temperature keeps shifting. This can cause erratic temperature fluctuations in your home. Thermostat repair can restore comfort if no other issues are found with your HVAC system.
6. The Thermostat Doesn’t Respond
Moving switches and pressing buttons should get your thermostat to work. There should be a subtle clicking sound and the system should turn on within a minute. An unresponsive thermostat is a common problem. It can often be resolved by changing the batteries and resetting the unit. If nothing more serious is wrong, this should resolve the issue immediately. If not, your thermostat likely has bad wiring.
7. The Display Screen Is Off or Doesn’t Respond
The thermostat’s screen should light up when you use its controls. If it is dead or dark, new batteries may be needed. A serious mechanical or electrical malfunction is also possible. Modern thermostats are more complex; more sophisticated interfaces provide more functionality but increase the potential for component issues or software glitches.
8. Set and Actual Temperature Readings Don’t Match
Some thermostats display the actual and set temperatures (if yours doesn’t, use a thermometer to compare the reading to the room temperature). The two should match soon after the system turns on. If the readings never match or your home is too warm or too cool, contact a thermostat repair professional. They can check the unit and recommend whether to repair or replace the unit.
9. Scheduled Settings Keep Getting Lost
A programmable thermostat should recall its temperature settings from day to day. They should stay programmed until you change them. If scheduled settings suddenly stop working, your thermostat may be malfunctioning.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Should a Thermostat Last?
The average lifespan of a thermostat is 10 years. Some can last longer than that. However, various factors can cause a thermostat to fail sooner, including power surges, increased wear, or corrosion. Old age is a common cause of thermostat failure. If the unit has reached the end of its life, the only option is to replace it.
Our tips for avoiding thermostat repair can save on costs throughout the unit’s lifespan and maintain optimal temperature control.
How Do I Troubleshoot My Thermostat?
Troubleshooting a thermostat is simple. If it isn’t working properly, try the following steps:
- Verify the unit is on the proper setting; if not, change and adjust the thermostat.
- Don’t only leave the thermostat “On”; the system will run continuously, so make sure to turn on the “Heat” or “Cool” setting.
- Turn the temperature up 5℉ in winter or down 5℉ in summer; air should start blowing from the vents.
- Change the batteries at least once a year; doing so in the spring can help you remember and prevent unexpected failures.
- Clean dust and debris from the thermostat; use a small brush and dry cloth and never get water under the cover.
- Schedule regular maintenance; a technician should test wiring connections to detect any problems early.
Is Thermostat Repair Expensive?
According to HomeAdvisor, thermostat repair can range from $50 to $500, while most people spend between $114 and $315. Pricing can vary depending on the model, what’s wrong with it, and whether it’s under warranty.
Call Trio Heating & Air Today
We provide thermostat repair and installation for homeowners throughout Santa Clara County and San Mateo County. Our technicians are trained to fix or replace all types of thermostats, including manual, programmable, and digital models. To request prompt thermostat, air conditioning, or heating services from Trio Heating & Air, book an appointment online or call (415) 223-5615 today.