Thermostats are a critical component to access and control your HVAC system. Whether you have a classic thermostat or have upgraded to a smart thermostat, they still have the potential to malfunction. No matter the style or brand, there are a few things that you can do to troubleshoot a thermostat before calling a professional for some extra help.
Troubleshooting a Thermostat Without Power
When a thermostat’s display has gone dark, it is most often connected to a lack of power to the device. Like any power-related issue, take some time to check the batteries or if the fuse has been blown or tripped. These are usually the most common solutions to power-related problems. If replacing batteries or resetting the fuse doesn’t solve your problem, the are some other steps you can take before calling a professional.
Before moving forward, ensure that the breaker is shut off for safety. Once off, remove the thermostat cover and inspect the device. If there is excessive dirt inside, a soft brush or canned air can be used to clean away any dirt that might be affecting functionality. Beyond cleaning, look for any other issues like loose or corroded wiring or loose screws as these can also lead to problems with a thermostat. If you don’t have previous experience dealing with electrical wiring, we recommend relying on a professional.
Troubleshooting a Thermostat with a Setting That Doesn’t Match the Room Temperature
Temperature discrepancies are most often caused by dirt in a thermostat. Similar to the above steps, take a little time to clean the device and then see if the temperatures become consistent again.
Another common cause of a temperature difference can be linked to the location of the thermostat in the home. If the device is located somewhere where it is exposed to heat sources, such as direct sunlight, or a draft, this might cause the thermostat to read at a different temperature than what the room actually is.
When to Call a Professional
There are many reasons why a thermostat may malfunction. While some can be easily addressed with a few troubleshooting steps, others require a more experienced hand. If you have found yourself in a position where you can’t seem to find a solution on your own, calling a trusted professional is the right next step.
Whether you need a local HVAC technician to troubleshoot your thermostat or install a new system, Einstein Pros has a team near you ready to help. Each of our technicians is extensively trained to ensure that they get the job done right and leave you feeling satisfied with your service. With locally-owned locations throughout Oregon, Washington, Idaho, and Nevada, our team is ready to help and ensure that your thermostat is keeping you comfortable in your home all year long. Contact us today and our team will take care of the rest to deliver the solution to your needs.