Your thermostat has been broken for months now. The problem is, that you don’t know where to start fixing it. What should you do?
Thermostats are designed to control the indoor temperature of your home.
They usually consist of a sensor that measures the air temperature inside your house, a display screen, and a button that allows you to adjust the temperature.
Thermostats are pretty simple devices, but they can also be very complex.
If you want to fix your thermostat, you’ll need to identify the cause of the issue.
There are several things that can go wrong with your thermostats, such as bad wiring or a malfunctioning sensor.
If you have an older thermostat, you may not even realize that there’s a problem. You might just think that the thermostat isn’t working properly.
But if you’re experiencing any problems with your thermostat at all, it could mean that something else in your home is causing the problem.
For example, you could have a furnace that’s running too hot or too cold. Or maybe you’ve got a leaky duct system.
This article will help to outline some of the main reasons that your thermostat may not be reaching your desired set temperature, and the steps that you can take to help rectify this.
Table of Contents
What Is A Thermostat?
A thermostat is a small electronic device that controls the temperature of your home.
It does so by measuring the temperature of the air inside your home and adjusting the amount of heat being supplied to your home accordingly.
The thermostat (see also ‘No Power To Thermostat? | Try These Troubleshooting Tips‘) is connected to the heating and cooling systems in your home via wires called “thermocouple”.
These thermocouples measure the temperature of the air in your home and send data about the temperature back to the thermostat.
The thermostat then uses this information to make adjustments to the heating and cooling equipment in your home.
This ensures that your home stays at a comfortable temperature throughout the day.
How Does A Thermostat Work?
Your thermostat works by measuring the temperature of your home using one or more sensors.
When the thermostat detects that the temperature of your home is outside the range that you desire, it sends a signal to the heating and cooling system to increase or decrease the temperature.
Your thermostat also monitors the temperature of the air around the thermostat itself, which helps to ensure that the temperature remains constant.
There are two main types of thermostats:
Programmable Thermostats
These allow you to program the time that you’d like the temperature to rise and fall each day. Programmable thermostats are generally more expensive than non-programmable models.
However, they offer greater flexibility when it comes to controlling the correct temperature of your home, allowing you to set different times for the temperature to change during the day.
Most homes don’t come equipped with a programmable thermostat.
Instead, most houses come with a non-programmable model.
Non-Programmable Thermostats
Most people use non-programmable thermostats because they’re easier to operate than their programmable counterparts.
These thermostats typically cost less than $50, making them much cheaper than their programmable counterparts (which start at around $100).
However, non-programmable thermostats aren’t able to adjust the temperature based on external factors, such as the weather.
They only control the temperature within the confines of your home.
What Are The Different Types of Thermostats?
Not all thermostats are created evenly – there are a number of types of thermostats, and choosing the best one can be a challenge.
Some of the main types of thermostats include:
Programmable Thermostats
A programmable thermostat is an electronic thermostat that allows you to set the correct temperature at which you want the heating system to operate.
It’s also capable of automatically turning off the heating system when you leave the house.
Remote Control Thermostats
A remote control thermostat is similar to a programmable thermostat.
However, instead of setting the temperature manually, you simply press a button on the thermostat to adjust the temperature.
Wireless Thermostats
A wireless thermostat is a type of thermostat that transmits signals using radio waves rather than wires.
This type of thermostat doesn’t require wiring in order to function properly. They are typically used in homes where there isn’t enough space for traditional thermostats.
Manual Thermostats
A manual thermostat is a simple thermostat that requires you to turn it on and off manually.
These thermostats don’t have programming capabilities, so they aren’t as popular as other thermostats.
Digital Thermostats
A digital thermostat is a modern version of the manual thermostat. Digital thermostats are highly customizable and feature many advanced features.
Many of these will have a touch screen for easy access and use.
How Do I Choose A Good Thermostat?
Choosing the right thermostat for your home can be tricky. There are several things to consider before purchasing one.
How Often Do You Need To Access The Thermostat?
If you rarely need to check the temperature, then a manual thermostat may be the way to go.
You’ll just need to turn it on and turn it off whenever you enter or exit the room.
What Kind Of Climate Does Your Home Experience?
If you live in a hot place, then a programmable thermostatic will work better than a manual thermostat.
Is Your Home Wired For electricity?
If not, then a wireless thermostat will be your best bet, allowing you greater convenience. A digital thermostat will also offer more benefits here.
Does Your Home Have Hardwood Floors?
If so, then you should look into installing a floor thermostat for the ultimate convenience and flexibility.
How Old Is Your Home?
Older homes tend to have older thermostats, so if you’re buying a new home, make sure to get something with a newer model.
In most cases, when you have an older home, mechanical thermostats will be the standard option
Are You Looking For A Specific Feature?
Some thermostats offer more options than others.
For example, some models allow you to schedule automatic temperature changes throughout the day.
How Much Money Are You Willing To Spend?
The cost of a thermostat varies depending on what brand you choose.
Digital thermostats, and those with additional features, will typically cost more than classic mechanical thermostats.
How Comfortable Are You With Technology?
If you’re uncomfortable with technology, then you might want to stick with a manual thermostat since it won’t require any technical knowledge.
Which Features Matter Most To You?
Some thermostats come with additional features such as air purification, humidity sensors, and even built-in speakers.
Make sure that you know which features you want before making a purchase.
How Important Is Energy Efficiency?
If you care about saving energy, then you should definitely take this into consideration when choosing a thermostat.
What Should I Do When the Thermostat Does Not Reach Set Temperature?
There are a number of possible reasons why your thermostat is failing to reach the set temperature, and some of the most common thermostat issues:
Issues With Wiring
When your thermostat isn’t working properly, it’s likely that there’s something wrong with the thermostat wiring, and the communication between the thermostat and the heating and cooling system.
This means that the thermostat isn’t receiving enough power from the heating and cooling system, preventing it from sending signals to the heating and cooling units.
To fix this problem, you’ll need to replace the faulty thermostat. You can do this yourself if you have some basic tools and know what you’re doing.
Otherwise, you should call an expert who will be able to help you get everything fixed up correctly.
Incorrect Settings
Another common reason why your thermostat won’t reach the set temperature is because it has been incorrectly programmed.
To find out whether this is the case, try resetting the settings on your thermostat. If this doesn’t work, then contact a professional to help you correct the issue.
Damaged Sensors
A damaged sensor could also be causing problems with your thermostat not reaching the set temperature.
To test this theory, remove all of the thermostat sensors from your unit and see if the problem persists.
If the problem still exists, then you’ll need to replace any damaged sensors.
Not Enough Heat/Cooling Units In Operation
It’s also possible that your thermostat isn’t getting enough heat or cool air to keep the room at the desired temperature.
This could mean that one or more of the heating or cooling units in operation haven’t reached full capacity.
You should first make sure that the thermostat is receiving enough power by checking the fuses and breakers.
If this doesn’t solve the problem, then you’ll need a qualified technician to inspect your heating and cooling systems and determine which unit(s) might require repair.
The Thermostat Is Dirty
It is possible that dirt and dust buildup inside the thermostat could cause the device to fail.
To clean the thermostat, simply wipe down the exterior using a damp cloth.
A dirty or dusty thermostat will not be working at full capacity and could struggle to reach the desired temperature.
If the problem persists after cleaning, then you’ll need an expert to come in and give your thermostat a thorough inspection.
Your Thermostat Needs Maintenance
Even though your thermostat is designed to run itself, it’s important to maintain it regularly.
Regular maintenance ensures that your thermostat continues to function as intended. As an example, you should change the batteries once every year.
The Thermostat Needs To Be Recalibrated
Sometimes, the thermostat needs to be recalibrated.
This process involves changing the calibration setting on the thermostat so that the temperature readings match those recorded by the heating and cooling system when the thermostat was last calibrated.
If you don’t know how to calibrate your thermostat, then you should hire an HVAC professional to perform this task for you.
The Thermostat Is In The Wrong Place
If you’ve moved the thermostat since installing it, then you may need to move it back to its original location.
Doing so will ensure that the thermostat receives the proper amount of heat and cold air.
There Is A Dirty Air Filter
If you notice a foul odor coming from your vents, then you probably have dirty air filters. When they become clogged, they prevent the flow of fresh air through the ductwork.
This causes the temperature of the air being circulated throughout the home to drop.
You can fix this problem yourself by replacing the filter.
Simply follow these steps:
- Remove the old filter.
- Clean the filter thoroughly.
- Replace the new filter.
Use Cleaning Solution
To avoid having to buy a new filter, you can use a solution made specifically for cleaning air filters.
Just spray the solution into the filter, wait about 15 minutes, and then vacuum up the excess liquid.
How Do I Know When I Need A New Thermostat?
In some cases, thermostat replacement is your only course of action – this may be the case if you have tried everything above, and are still having no luck.
There are several signs that indicate you need a new thermostat.
For instance, if the temperature in your home frequently fluctuates between two different temperatures, then you probably need a new thermostatic device.
Similarly, if your thermostat fails to reach the desired temperature, then you’re likely experiencing a malfunction.
You can use these symptoms to determine whether you need a new thermo-device or not.
What Should I Look For In A Thermostat?
When shopping for a replacement thermostat, there are several factors that you should consider.
First, look for a thermostat that has been tested and certified by Underwriters Laboratories (UL).
UL certification indicates that the product meets industry standards for safety and reliability.
Second, look for a thermo-device with adjustable settings. Adjustable settings allow you to fine-tune the temperature in your home.
Third, choose a thermostat that comes with a warranty. Warranties guarantee that the manufacturer will replace any defective parts within a certain period of time.
How Do I Know When I Need A New Thermostat?
There are several signs that indicate you need a new thermostat.
For instance, if the temperature in your home frequently fluctuates between two different temperatures, then you probably need a new thermostatic device.
Similarly, if your thermostat fails to reach the desired temperature, then you’re likely experiencing a malfunction.
You can use these symptoms to determine whether you need a new thermo-device or not.
When shopping for a replacement thermostat, there are several factors that you should consider.
First, look for a thermostat that has been tested and certified by Underwriters Laboratories (UL).
UL certification indicates that the product meets industry standards for safety and reliability.
Second, look for a thermo-device with adjustable settings. Adjustable settings allow you to fine-tune the temperature in your home.
Third, choose a thermostat that comes with a warranty.
Warranties guarantee that the manufacturer will replace any defective parts within a certain period of time.
Final Thoughts
Ensuring that your thermostat works as it should is a crucial element of ensuring that your home is comfortable, with reliable heating, and no unwanted airflow issues.
If you are struggling with your thermostat reaching the desired set temperature, try the solutions above to attempt to resolve the situation.
Remember, if all else fails, then a qualified HVAC technician is often the best solution for a broken thermostat.
