Troubleshooting Thermostat Problems Keeps Your Temperature Settings in Check

If your central A/C or heating system is malfunctioning, or just not working at all, you should determine whether your HVAC equipment or the thermostat is the problem. A thermostat problem is usually a less expensive fix than something in the cooling or heating system. Here are some common thermostat problems.

HVAC System Won’t Run

Check to see if the HVAC system and thermostat are getting power. The problem might be a tripped circuit breaker or blown fuse. Flip the circuit switch to the equipment all the way off and then flip it back on, and see if the system resumes operation. If the thermostat is powered by batteries, replace them and see if that works. Contact a trusted professional if these fixes don’t work.

Open the thermostat casing, and if it is dirty take a small brush and clean it out. Over time, the thermostat’s workings can easily get coated in dust, which interferes with its mechanical and electrical operations.

If the wiring is loose or disconnected, reconnect it (make sure the power is off before touching anything electrical). Call a professional if you can’t address this wiring problem.

Thermostat and Room Temperatures Don’t Match

This could be another situation where the thermostat might be dirty. If cleaning doesn’t do work, check to see whether the thermostat is level. If it is not level, or has been incorrectly installed, it can offset settings and calibration.

Make sure the thermostat is also located in a good spot. It should not be placed on a wall that gets direct sunlight or cool drafts. If it’s responding to atypical conditions, it will not properly cool or heat other parts of the house.

Thermostat Shuts Down for No Reason, Or Won’t Shut Off

This is another situation where the thermostat may just need cleaning. In a mechanical thermostat, there could be a malfunction in the anticipator, which may force a system shutdown for no apparent reason or keep it running after the desired temperature has been reached.

If you can’t solve thermostat problems in your Austin area home, contact Airco.