
Are you having issues with your air conditioning or heater? If you experience any of the problems mentioned below, a faulty thermostat could be to blame. Find out how to tell if your thermostat isn’t working and what to do about it. You might also want to explore ways to test AC efficiency to ensure your system is running at peak performance.
Thermostat Fails to Complete HVAC Cycle
If your HVAC system is starting and shutting off too early, it is not completing a full cooling or heating cycle. In this case, it would fail to maintain a consistent temperature. Short cycling makes your equipment less efficient and may cause an increase in your electric bills.
Thermostat Prevents HVAC System from Starting
Your HVAC system’s thermostat controls the temperature inside your home by turning the system on and off. With a thermostat that doesn’t function properly, it may fail to start at all, or it might refuse to shut down. In the latter case, the system would just continue to run until you physically turn off the switch.
Thermostat Unresponsive to Temperature Changes
When you turn the thermostat up or down, the system should respond relatively quickly. If the thermostat is working properly, you should hear a clicking sound. If there is no change after a few seconds and you hear no clicking sound, you may have a defective thermostat. Unresponsive thermostats need to be replaced, and you’ll require a professional technician for that. Customers in the vicinity of Salisbury can rely on Real HVAC Services for thermostat replacement.
Troubleshooting a Malfunctioning Thermostat
If you think your thermostat could be bad, there are a few things to look into before calling for service. First, make sure the thermostat is actually turned on. It could be as simple as that. Notice whether the screen on the display panel is lit. If it isn’t and the thermostat really isn’t working, check the batteries. They could be weak or dead. You can also follow steps to clean AC unit, as built-up dirt can reduce system responsiveness and contribute to thermostat issues.
When to Call for Thermostat Repair Service
A faulty thermostat can seriously impact the temperature inside your home. Summer temperatures can reach the triple digits, and it’s a bad time to not have cool air. If you encounter this or any other issue with your HVAC system in Salisbury, turn to the qualified professionals at Real HVAC Services. We perform both heating and cooling installation, repair and maintenance. In addition to that, we offer a complete line of plumbing services. Call us today or check out our HVAC tips for extreme weather to help you stay comfortable year-round.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: What are the main signs that my thermostat is not working?
Answer: Some key indicators include your HVAC system not completing a full heating or cooling cycle, the system failing to turn on or off based on the thermostat setting, and no clicking sound when you adjust the temperature. These are often signs of a malfunctioning thermostat.
Question: What simple checks can I do at home if I think the thermostat is failing?
Answer: Start by verifying the display is on and the thermostat is set to the correct mode. Check the batteries if it uses them, and make sure the wiring is intact. Also, confirm that the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped. If all looks fine and issues persist, the thermostat may need replacing.
Question: Could thermostat problems cause higher energy bills or inefficient heating/cooling?
Answer: Yes. A malfunctioning thermostat can cause your system to short cycle or run continuously, both of which lead to wasted energy and higher utility bills. It can also result in uneven temperatures and poor comfort throughout your home.
Question: When should I call a professional about thermostat issues?
Answer: If basic troubleshooting doesn’t resolve the issue, or if the thermostat is older or unresponsive, it’s best to contact a professional. They can determine whether it’s a wiring issue, a faulty sensor, or if a replacement is needed.
Question: Can a thermostat affect both heating and air conditioning?
Answer: Absolutely. The thermostat controls both heating and cooling systems. If it’s not working correctly, you may notice problems in either or both modes, such as the system not turning on, running too long, or not reaching the set temperature.