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Why Is My Thermostat Not Working?


Air Conditioning, Heating

Thermostat Troubleshooting Tips

Smart thermostat

Your thermostat is responsible for keeping your heating and cooling systems operating in the way that you want. When your thermostat is not working properly, your Florida home can become uncomfortable very quickly. If you are having thermostat troubles, Iceberg Home Services is here to help by covering common thermostat problems and solutions. Our HVAC technicians have put together this helpful guide to troubleshooting five common thermostat issues.

Why Is My Thermostat Not Reaching the Set Temp?

You’ve set your thermostat to your ideal temperature, but for some reason, your air conditioner isn’t cooling your home to that temperature. If this happens to you, try the following steps:

  • Dirty sensors: Thermostats use temperature sensors to tell you when to turn on the HVAC system. Over time, dust, dirt, and lint can find their way into the thermostat housing and block the sensors. To fix this problem, remove the cover and gently clean the parts inside using a soft-bristled brush.
  • Damaged sensors: If your attempts to clean the sensors don’t work, they may be damaged, resulting in a higher or lower readout than the actual ambient temperature in the room. You’ll need help from a professional to fix this issue.
  • Poor thermostat location: Is your thermostat exposed to direct sunlight, heat from an air vent, or drafts from an old window? You may need a professional’s help relocating it so it can get a more accurate temperature reading.

Why Won’t My Thermostat Let Me Change the Temperature Setting?

Sometimes when you try to change the setting on your thermostat, it simply won’t let you. This can be quite frustrating, but you can try the following thermostat reset tips to fix this issue:

  • Locked unit: Check if the child lock setting is activated. You’ll need to disable it before you can change the temperature.
  • No power: If the thermostat isn’t working at all, there could be a power issue. Try replacing the batteries or checking your breaker box to make sure the thermostat is receiving power.
  • Bad wiring: If the wiring is bad, the thermostat may be unresponsive. Remove the cover and check inside for loose, detached, or corroded wires. If you spot any problems, contact an HVAC technician for assistance.

Why Are My Heating & Cooling Systems Continuously Running?

If your air conditioner is constantly running without taking a break, your thermostat could be at fault. Try the following troubleshooting tips:

  • Auto fan: Check the thermostat setting. The fan may be set to “on,” which means the blower circulates air continuously. To change this, set the fan to “auto” so it only operates when the furnace or air conditioner is running.
  • Faulty thermostat: If you’ve changed the fan setting and the issue hasn’t been resolved, there could be an internal fault with the thermostat. Call a professional for help diagnosing and repairing the problem.

Why Is My Thermostat Blank?

Has your thermostat screen gone blank? When the thermostat display is not working, this can prevent you from changing the temperature settings entirely. Try these steps for fixing your faulty thermostat:

  • Dead batteries: The first troubleshooting tip for a blank thermostat is to remove the cover and replace the batteries. If the screen powers on now, you’re good to go.
  • Tripped breaker: For hardwired thermostats, the issue could lie with a tripped circuit breaker. Check your electrical box and reset any tripped breakers you find.
  • Tripped safety switch: Check around your furnace or air conditioner for a safety switch. It may have tripped by accident. However, if you notice excess moisture or high temperatures within your system, call an HVAC professional to schedule an inspection.

Why Is My Thermostat Not Turning On?

If your thermostat is not turning on, there could be a number of reasons at play. The following steps can help to fix a thermostat that is not working:

  • Incorrect settings: First, check that your thermostat is set correctly. If you want heating, make sure it’s set to “heat.” If you want air conditioning, make sure it’s set to “cool.”
  • Overheated HVAC system: If the HVAC system runs briefly, shuts back off, and won’t turn on again, the equipment may be overheating. Try replacing the filter and opening all vents to improve airflow. Also, be aware that air conditioners take three minutes to turn on again after shutting off to avoid damaging the compressor.
  • Broken thermostat: If no other troubleshooting tips do the trick, your thermostat may be broken and require a replacement.

Schedule Thermostat Replacement Services

Hopefully, these troubleshooting tips worked, and your thermostat is operating normally again. If not, Iceberg Home Services can set things right. Call us the next time your thermostat stops working, and we’ll diagnose the problem and recommend a cost-effective repair. If an upgrade is the better choice, we can install an energy-saving programmable or smart thermostat. With our extensive experience and expertise, you can trust our team to recommend the best options for your budget and comfort needs.

Contact Iceberg Home Services today to schedule thermostat services in Central Florida.

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