Is It Time to Replace Your Thermostat?

thermostat

A thermostat is the temperature gatekeeper of the home. It detects interior temperature and adjusts accordingly to meet a homeowner’s desired preferences.

However, they are not invincible, and are susceptible to normal wear and tear, like other home appliances. The difference is that a defective thermostat can disrupt your level of comfort, as well as incur hefty costs to your wallet over time.

Here are a few things you can do to test that your home thermostat is in good working condition:

Check Wiring

First of all, make sure to turn off your circuit breaker. For thermostats, remove the faceplate and check that all wires are secure. A disconnected wire could be the main culprit in a faulty thermostat. For the air-conditioner, check the red & green wires. For the furnace, check the red & white wires. If all wires are secure, you may be experiencing a bigger issue with your wiring, and it may be time to call for a professional maintenance check. (LINK)

Check Fuses

A blown fuse is sometimes the underlying cause of a malfunctioning thermostat. Make sure to check fuses and remove any dust or debris to keep your thermostat running at peak condition.

Check Batteries

If you have upgraded to a digital thermostat and it suddenly stops working, try putting in new batteries. This simple fix may ward off a complicated service call. It may also be a good idea to set a reminder to change out batteries every few months ensure your thermostat continues to run efficiently.

Check Vents

During the winter season, set your thermostat five degrees higher than normal. Then check your supply vents to see how they react. Do the supply vents blow out air or do the return vents suck air in? This test can be a good indicator of thermostat performance.

By periodically checking your thermostat, you will save money and keep your HVAC unit in good-working condition, extending the life of this important and expensive piece of equipment.

At ALPS, we value our customer’s time and HVAC investments. If you have any questions regarding the thermostat or HVAC unit in your home, be sure to contact us or call 800- 994- 2577.