HVAC thermostat malfunctions can leave homeowners uncomfortable and frustrated. There aren’t many things worse than seeking relief from hot summer weather, only to find that your thermostat isn’t working properly. Keep reading to learn about five common reasons your HVAC thermostat may be malfunctioning.
1) No Power
A thermostat that doesn’t turn on at all is likely experiencing a lack of power. Once a tech restores the power back to the thermostat, the air conditioner will be able to turn back on. For some thermostats, this is as simple as reattaching the power wiring. In other thermostats, the power doesn’t come from the electricity in the house. These cases require a change of batteries in the thermostat. Either of these scenarios will restore power to the thermostat, resolving the issue.
2) Your Thermostat Needs Cleaning
Thermostats rely on an internal thermometer to measure the temperature indoors. When the temperature indoors is higher than what the thermostat is set to, the thermostat turns on the air conditioner to lower the temperature to the desired target. If dust and dirt get into the thermostat over time, the accuracy of the internal thermometer can fail.
Cleaning your thermostat can improve the function of your thermostat. An AC technician can help you clean your thermostat and restore it to full functionality.
3) Improper Installation
Homeowners who like to take on DIY projects around their homes may inadvertently install a new thermostat improperly. Most thermostats require about six wires to be securely affixed to ensure proper operation. If these wires are loose, or otherwise not installed correctly, this prevents the thermostat from working as expected.
If you’re unsure if your thermostat has been properly installed, an AC technician can look over it for you. Once fixed, your thermostat can more effectively regulate the temperature in your home.
4) Miscalibration
A miscalibrated thermostat can encounter similar issues as an AC unit that needs cleaning and maintenance. In a miscalibrated thermostat, however, the issue is that the temperature sensor doesn’t not read temperature accurately. As a result, the operation of the air conditioner may skew.
An AC technician can recalibrate your thermostat to allow it to measure temperature accurately. Once a tech recalibrates your thermostat, your air conditioner and thermostat should work together to provide much needed relief from the summer heat.
5) Obsolete Technology
Older thermostats are more likely to encounter technical issues than their newer counterparts. As with all forms of technology these days, HVAC technology also becomes obsolete with time. This is why consumers find themselves needing newer technology for their phones, computers, TVs, etc. Thermostats are no different.
If your thermostat is clean, calibrated, properly installed, and has power, but still fails to operate as expected, it’s most likely time for an update. In this case, a thermostat replacement should restore your air conditioner to full functionality.
The AC professionals at Home Comfort USA can help you figure out why your thermostat isn’t working as you would expect. Our professionals provide top-of-the-line customer service to help our clients maintain the comfort of their home in the Southern California heat. If you’d like to have a consultation for your malfunctioning thermostat, or other air conditioner issues, please contact Home Comfort today!
