2018
June
How to Tell if Your Thermostat Isn’t Working Efficiently

How to Tell if Your Thermostat Isn’t Working Efficiently

Jun 12


Nothing is more frustrating than a thermostat that isn’t working correctly, which can make you feel uncomfortable in your own home. Whether your thermostat has all the bells and whistles of modern technology or you’re kickin’ it old school dial-style, you should do a spot check to ensure your heating and cooling system is doing its job.

If you’re trying to “turn up the heat” or “chill out,” here are some ways to test your thermostat to ensure that it’s working efficiently:

Change the Temp

Depending on the season, set your thermostat 5 degrees hotter or colder than you usually set. Wait a few minutes to see if the thermostat kicks in. If the thermostat doesn’t turn on after changing the temperature, then you may have an issue that needs further investigation in finding the problem. If it kicks on, then you should be good to go, but read on for more ways to test your device for other possible issues.

Check the Temp

If the temperature doesn’t feel quite like the temperature that your thermostat is displaying, then you should test the temperature reading. You can easily test it by using a small thermometer. Place a paper towel behind the thermometer (so that heat or cold transfer from the wall won’t affect the outcome) and compare the reading on the thermometer to your thermostat. If it’s off by more than 1 degree, it could be related to the thermostat sensor and may need recalibrating. If recalibration does not seem to do the trick, it may be time for a new thermostat.

Seasonal Settings

This may sound elementary, but sometimes the smallest, most obvious things that we overlook, can cause the most significant problems. If you are feeling hot air in the summer or cool air in the winter, double-check to make sure your thermostat is set to the proper heat or cool mode. It’s a simple fix by a flip of the switch!

If you are experiencing any of the above issues, the following reasons could be causing your thermostat to read incorrectly or malfunction:

  • Dirt or dust inside the thermostat
  • The thermostat box is unlevel and off-center (typically applies to older model thermostats that are mercury-based)
  • The thermostat is not placed in the best location. For example, in direct sunlight or drafty areas such as windows and doors
  • Your thermostat is getting old

If your thermostat is giving you trouble and you are unable to find the problem, you may need to call an HVAC professional for assistance. AAA Service can help you get your temperatures set right! Call or schedule an appointment with us online for all of your HVAC needs!

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