Why Is My Thermostat Not Working?
A thermostat could stop working because the batteries are dead, buildup is causing connectivity issues, it’s not communicating, or it’s incompatible with the HVAC system. Sometimes, it’s possible to figure out which one of these problems is the issue and fix it yourself, but you may need to contact a reputable HVAC company, such as Champion Air.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
- Common reasons your thermostat isn’t working
- How a faulty thermostat affects your HVAC system
- Basic troubleshooting steps for homeowners
- When to replace your thermostat
- Keeping your HVAC system running smoothly
Keep reading to find out how to check that your thermostat is functioning correctly and why Champion Air should be your first call when something goes wrong.
Upgrade Your Thermostat for Better Comfort — Contact Champion Air!
Champion Air has been helping homeowners in Arizona with HVAC issues since 1982. When you work with our technicians, you get fast, reliable service for your thermostat from a company with a Better Business Bureau Rating of A+. Call today to discover the Champion Air difference.
Common Reasons Your Thermostat Isn’t Working
If you notice that the air in your home is colder or warmer than you have set it, the issue may be a bad thermostat. Some of the most common causes of thermostat malfunctions include:
- Dead batteries lead to unresponsive units
- Dirt or dust buildup causes connectivity issues
- Wiring problems disrupt communication with the HVAC system
- Outdated models can be incompatible with newer systems
If you think your thermostat may be malfunctioning, it’s essential to address it quickly. If left alone, a malfunctioning thermostat can cause long-term — and much more expensive — problems.
How a Faulty Thermostat Affects Your HVAC System
Thermostats help your HVAC system regulate your home’s temperature by detecting the current temperature and sending signals to the HVAC system to turn on the furnace or AC unit. If you have a faulty thermostat, you may notice some of the following issues:
- Inconsistent temperatures throughout the home, such as one room or floor that’s markedly warmer or cooler
- System cycling on and off irregularly, leading to increased wear and tear
- Increased energy bills due to inefficiency
- Reduced comfort and potential damage to HVAC components
If you’re not home and monitoring your thermostat regularly, it’s easy to miss the early signs of a problem. Any time the air in your home seems warmer or cooler than it should be or you notice your HVAC system isn’t keeping up with what your thermostat is set on, it’s time to call in the professionals.
Basic Troubleshooting Steps for Homeowners
In some cases, fixing a thermostat is as simple as double-checking the programmable settings or ensuring it has fresh batteries. Try these basic troubleshooting steps if you want to try to fix it yourself before calling Champion Air.
- Check and replace batteries if needed.
- Ensure the thermostat is set to the correct mode (heat, cool, or auto). Programmable thermostats may have more custom modes that can cause issues if set incorrectly.
- Inspect the device for visible damage or dirt accumulation.
- Verify that the circuit breaker for the HVAC system isn’t tripped.
When to Replace Your Thermostat
If one of the steps above doesn’t offer a quick fix, it may be necessary to change out the thermostat entirely. Signs it’s time for a new unit include:
- The thermostat frequently malfunctions or is unresponsive despite troubleshooting.
- You have an older model that doesn’t have energy-efficient features or isn’t compatible with your HVAC system.
- You want more advanced features like remote control, intelligent scheduling, or voice activation.
Upgrading to a smart thermostat can fix your issues, give you more control over your temperature settings, and potentially help you save energy and money on utility bills.
Keeping Your HVAC System Running Smoothly
A well-functioning thermostat is key to keeping your HVAC system running smoothly. Inspect the thermostat regularly to ensure it’s working correctly, and wipe it down to avoid dust accumulation. When you schedule an annual maintenance appointment with Champion Air, we’ll also check the thermostat and the HVAC system to ensure they work as they should.
Troubleshooting Thermostat Problems? Call Champion Air Today!
Whether your thermostat isn’t working or you want to upgrade to a smart model, Champion Air is here to help. We service all brands and offer 24/7 emergency service and same-day appointments.
