How to Know When It's Time to Replace the Thermostat

Thermostat Replacement: Knowing Is Half the Battle

There are several major components in a central HVAC system. Often, when homeowners face issues with their system, the thermostat is the last component they look to. There is so much talk about the evaporator coil or the fan motor that the thermostat can get lost in the noise. But, a malfunctioning or broken thermostat can cause problems that may seem like other issues. Luckily, there are ways for homeowners to spot these problems and then act accordingly. Read on to learn how to tell when it's time to replace the thermostat. 

Climbing Energy Bills

The thermostat is the brain of the HVAC system. It controls the other functions and allows homeowners to make changes. And as thermostats get smarter, they do more and more things, like provide energy usage reports. But since it's the operation's brains, a thermostat's malfunction can cause high energy bills. 

The most common example is when the thermostat is reading the wrong temperatures. If it thinks that it's even two or three degrees warmer in the house than it is, the system will work harder to cool the house. And if this malfunction is allowed to continue, that two or three-degree difference can add up over time, resulting in high energy bills. 

Wrong Temperature Readings

As mentioned above, the wrong temperature reading can cause the HVAC system to work overtime — whether the heater or the air conditioning unit. But telling if this is the case can be difficult from ambient feeling. This is why homeowners can use a simple indoor thermometer to check the temperature if their thermostat is malfunctioning. 

If it is the case that the thermostat is reading the wrong temperatures, there could be multiple causes. Most thermostats have a lifespan of ten years. So, if the thermostat is older, it could be time for a replacement. Manufacturing defects can also cause this. But if the thermostat isn't old and has been working fine for some time, it could be worth resetting to see if that resolves the issue. If not, it's best to consult an HVAC professional about thermostat replacement. 

Consistent Short Cycling

The last major sign that the HVAC thermostat needs replacing is short cycling. When operating optimally, heaters and air conditioners are supposed to run until they reach the temperature set at the thermostat. But short cycling happens when the heater or air conditioner shuts off prematurely. This causes the unit to work harder to reach temperature. 

While there are several potential causes for short cycling, a broken thermostat is one. This is why homeowners should pay attention to how often their system turns on and off and whether or not it reaches the desired temperature. If it is short cycling, the thermostat could be to blame, and a professional HVAC company should be consulted to determine if it's the thermostat or some other component causing the issue. 

About All Services 

All Services has pridefully served Crown Point, IN, since 2006. Their courteous and clean technicians leave every home clean and are fully licensed and insured. They also feature flat-rate pricing, so there are no surprises when they work in the home. Call them today for thermostat replacement or troubleshooting in Crown Point, IN!

• 
  +