You have your thermostat set to a nice, comfortable 73, but you’re reaching for a sweater. This could be a sign that your thermostat is malfunctioning, or that something else is going on which could mean you need an expert to check out your system.
A surprising number of problems with AC systems are caused by the thermostat. Thankfully, thermostats are one of the least expensive components of the system and be repaired or replaced. So, how do you know if your thermostat has a problem? Here’s a quick list of things to consider:
- Is your thermostat set correctly? Did the kids switch it from heat to cool or vice versa? It might seem dumb, but it happens to all of us. Making sure that your thermostat is actually set the way you intended is the first step.
- Is your furnace or air conditioning system working properly? Check the main circuit breaker hasn’t thrown and that the system is getting power.
- Adjust your thermostat five degrees higher in heating season or lower in the cooling season and see if anything turns on. Sometimes systems can get “stuck” and become non-responsive. The problem might also be in a fan somewhere. Your thermostat may be reading the incorrect temperature and thus, not cutting in when it needs to.
- Check to see if air of the appropriate temperature is flowing. If your air conditioner is blowing warm air and the thermostat is set correctly, it is most likely a problem with the system, but it could be your thermostat. If the unit is not blowing any air at all, try setting the fan to “on” rather than “auto.” If air starts blowing at that point then it’s worth checking the thermostat.
- Make sure nothing is messing with your thermostat. It should not be over a TV (especially an older CRT TV) or a lamp that still uses incandescent bulbs. It should not be near a heat source, in a direct draft, or wedged in a corner with no airflow. If any of these are true, you need to move it, which you may need an electrician’s help with.
- Check the batteries. Some electronic thermostats have batteries that can, of course, wear out. It’s worth simply replacing the batteries and seeing if that fixes the problem. Make sure that you know how to remove the cover properly, look at the owner’s manual if unsure. Most thermostats use either AA or AAA alkaline batteries or 3V button-style lithium batteries (similar to those used in a watch). Your owner’s manual will tell you which type of battery you need.
- With mechanical thermostats there’s a heat anticipator under the cover, generally marked “longer.” If your furnace is cutting in and out, move it longer. If your room temperature is fluctuating, move it the other way.
Thermostat repair is seldom worth it. If none of the above work, you should get a professional, but be prepared to replace it, rather than repair. If you have an older mechanical thermostat, it may be worth replacing it with a digital or smart thermostat anyway. Digital thermostats reduce energy costs considerably, and programmable thermostats are even better.
If this is not the problem, then you need proper AC repair to solve the problem. In many cases, however, the troubleshooting above will resolve the problem. When it does not, call American Air Cares. We are here to help! We offer AC service to Port St. Lucie, and surrounding areas.
