Why Is Your Thermostat Not Working? Common Causes & Fixes

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Is there anything more frustrating than a thermostat that refuses to work? When your thermostat seems unresponsive or is acting up, you’ll likely scramble to find a solution. Before calling an HVAC professional, there are several steps you can take to troubleshoot thermostat issues on your own.

By following these HVAC troubleshooting tips, you may be able to fix a problematic thermostat and get your home comfort systems back up and running in no time.

Trust AIS Heating & Air Conditioning’s expert tips for quick and effective solutions!

Check the Power Supply

Sometimes, a simple fix can resolve a seemingly complex problem. At the first sign of your thermostat not working, check its power supply to make sure it’s connected. To do this, turn off the power to your HVAC system from within the breaker box and reset its terminal.

If your thermostat runs on batteries, try swapping them out since low battery power is a common cause of malfunctions. To check your thermostat’s batteries, you’ll first need to remove the thermostat from the wall. Then, use a screwdriver to remove the battery cover and replace the old batteries with fresh ones. Reattach the cover once the new batteries are properly aligned and test the thermostat’s operation.

Verify the Settings

Does your thermostat have a mind of its own? You may need to check its settings. Start by checking its programming — sometimes, the issue can be traced back to an improperly set temperature range or an incorrect mode. Referring to your thermostat’s user manual can help you navigate its control settings.

If your thermostat is set incorrectly, it may reach a limited temperature range or fail to cool or heat your home effectively. Sometimes, the settings might be optimized for a different HVAC system. For example, a thermostat programmed for a furnace may not work efficiently with a heat pump system.

To avoid this issue, check that the thermostat settings are compatible with your HVAC system and set to a temperature that comfortably covers your entire home.

Clean the Thermostat

Is your thermostat still not fixed? It may need a thorough cleaning.

Dust and debris trapped inside the thermostat can affect its performance and disrupt your home’s HVAC system. It’s important to regularly clean your thermostat to avoid preventable issues from dirt or grime.

To clean your thermostat, we recommend using a soft brush or compressed air to remove debris from the interior. For the exterior, a gentle wipe-down with a damp cloth will do.

If you notice weak airflow, cool drafts, or inconsistent heat, the issue may lie with your ductwork, not the thermostat. In that case, it’s best to call an HVAC professional.

When To Call a Professional

There are several reasons your thermostat may be performing erratically or not functioning properly. The best way to pinpoint the cause of the problem is with professional HVAC repair.

When fixing a thermostat requires more than a simple cleaning or adjustment, it’s time to rely on a pro. HVAC specialists are trained to diagnose and repair the underlying issues that could hurt your thermostat’s performance, including electrical faults or ductwork concerns.

If your thermostat frequently malfunctions, call AIS for an evaluation. Our certified technicians are equipped to handle wiring malfunctions, faulty blower motors, refrigerant leaks, broken ductwork, and more. We address a range of thermostat issues and offer expert solutions to restore your cooling or heating.

Contact Our Team Today for Thermostat Repairs

If you feel like your thermostat is out to get you, don’t panic. When personal troubleshooting fails, AIS is here to help.

Our locally operated team helps homes and businesses throughout the Bay Area achieve the best performance from their HVAC systems. Our reliable, knowledgeable approach to heating and cooling provides best-in-class care backed by years of expertise.

If you’re experiencing thermostat issues, don’t wait — AIS will quickly diagnose and repair the problem to keep your home comfortable year-round.

Do you need a thermostat repaired in Livermore, California? Contact AIS Heating & Air Conditioning now to schedule a service.

 

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