When your home won’t hold the temperature you set, the thermostat is often the first thing to check, and sometimes the easiest fix in the whole system. Before you assume your furnace or AC has failed, run through these four quick troubleshooting steps.
1. Check the Power and Batteries
A blank or unresponsive screen usually means a power issue. Replace the batteries if your thermostat uses them. If it’s hardwired, check that the breaker to your HVAC system hasn’t tripped and that the furnace door or switch is in place, since many systems won’t power the thermostat otherwise.
2. Confirm the Settings
It sounds simple, but double-check that the thermostat is set to “heat” or “cool” as needed and that the target temperature is actually above or below the current room temperature. Make sure the fan is on “auto” rather than “on” so it isn’t running between cycles.
3. Clean It Out
Dust and debris inside an older thermostat can interfere with the readings. Gently remove the cover and clean any buildup with a soft brush or cloth. Also make sure the unit is level, as some older models rely on it.
4. Check the Location
A thermostat in direct sun, near a vent, or by a drafty door will read the wrong temperature and cycle your system incorrectly. If it’s poorly placed, it may need relocating.
Still Not Working?
If you’ve tried these steps and comfort still isn’t right, the thermostat may be failing or the issue may lie deeper in the system. We can test it, recommend an upgrade if it’s worthwhile, and make sure the rest of your HVAC is responding correctly. See our HVAC repair services or call (509) 891-5110.
