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Thermostats: Common Repairs to Expect

Thermostats are essential to any heating or cooling system because they control the home’s temperature. Thermostats are equipped with sensors that pick up on the temperatures throughout the home and then signal the AC to turn on or off based on the programmed settings. Because of this, a thermostat that is in disrepair will throw off the function of the entire HVAC system. To help you be prepared, our AC service techs at CM Heating put together a list of some of the most common thermostat repairs to expect. 

Replacing the Batteries

Most modern thermostats use batteries to power their display and programming functions. Over time, these batteries will wear out, causing the thermostat to stop working. Low batteries can also make the thermostat display incorrect information about the temperature inside the home. If your thermostat isn’t responding or is displaying a low battery warning, try replacing the batteries first. This is an easy and inexpensive fix that can save you from more complicated repairs down the line. 

A good maintenance tip our AC service can offer is to ensure your thermostat receives fresh batteries every season. This will ensure that your thermostat is reliable at all times of the year. 

Cleaning the Thermostat

Dust and debris accumulate inside the thermostat over time, affecting its performance and accuracy. To clean your thermostat, turn off the power and remove the cover. Use a soft brush or compressed air to remove dirt or debris from the internal components. You can also use a small amount of rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab to clean the contacts and sensors. Regular cleaning can prevent minor issues from turning into major problems. 

Checking the Wiring

The wiring connecting the thermostat to your HVAC system can become loose or damaged over time, causing the thermostat to malfunction. If your thermostat isn’t turning on or isn’t communicating with your heating or cooling system, you may want to check the wiring connections.

To check the wiring, follow the following simple tips. Turn off the power to the thermostat and inspect the wires for any signs of damage or looseness. If you see loose wiring, but you’re unsure of how to fix the problem, we recommend calling a professional AC service technician for assistance. 

Calibrating the Thermostat

When your thermostat displays an incorrect temperature or isn’t maintaining consistent temperature levels, it may need to be calibrated. This involves adjusting the thermostat’s internal settings to ensure that it’s accurately measuring the indoor temperature. 

To calibrate your thermostat, you will need to carefully read the manufacturer’s instructions or contact a professional HVAC technician. This task is normally performed during an AC tune-up service. If you keep up with regular tune-ups, you won’t ever have to worry about the problem of miscalibrated thermostats. 

Upgrading the Thermostat

If your thermostat is old or outdated, you may want to consider upgrading to a newer model, like a smart thermostat. Smart thermostats offer advanced features like programmable schedules, remote access, and energy-saving modes that can help you save money on your heating and cooling bills. Upgrading your thermostat can also improve the performance and efficiency of your HVAC system.

Short Cycling

Short cycling is another common problem that homeowners experience with their thermostats. This problem happens when the air conditioning system turns on and off too frequently, normally within a few minutes of it turning on. Short cycling causes the equipment to wear out early, which results in higher energy bills.

The most common cause of short cycling is a faulty thermostat. When the thermostat is not working correctly, it may send incorrect signals to the AC and cause it to turn on and off too frequently. To fix this problem, you should have a professional AC service inspect and repair or replace the thermostat as needed.

First-Class AC Service in Everett, WA

If you feel that your thermostat is coming to the end of its lifespan, it may be time to explore the possibility of a replacement or upgrade. Call CM Heating today for all of your thermostats needs. Our technicians will bring a quick and efficient resolution to all of your challenges.