How To Fix A Broken Thermostat At Home

Is your thermostat not working properly? If so, there is no need to panic – you can fix it at home! This guide will walk you through how to fix a broken thermostat, so you can get your home comfortable again. Keep in mind that while this is a DIY guide, if you are uncomfortable performing any of the steps, contact a professional. To book an appointment with an HVAC professional, click here.

How to determine if it’s a problem with the thermostat or something else

A broken thermostat is no fun. But, with so many components of your HVAC system, how do you know that the thermostat is the problem? Here are some common signs to look out for:

The room temperature isn’t consistent.

If you notice that the climate of your home isn’t consistent, it could be a sign that your thermostat isn’t working properly. Inconsistent temperatures can be caused by a variety of factors, including dirty air filters, a faulty heating or cooling system, or a problem with your thermostat itself.

The thermostat is displaying an error code.

An error code on your thermostat indicates a problem with the unit that needs to be addressed. Error codes can be caused by a number of factors, including a power outage, low batteries, or a faulty connection. 

The thermostat isn’t responding to changes in temperature.

If you find that your thermostat isn’t responding to changes in temperature, it could indicate a problem. There are a few different reasons why this could happen, including a dirty sensor or a faulty connection.

The thermostat is making strange noises.

If you notice that your thermostat is making strange noises, it could be an indication of a problem. Common causes of strange noises include loose parts or a build-up of dust and dirt. 

The display is blank or dim.

If the display on your thermostat is blank or dim, it could mean that there is an issue with the unit itself. This could be caused by a power outage, low batteries, or a faulty connection.

How to fix a broken thermostat

To fix a broken thermostat, here are some common issues and how to fix them:

Check the batteries

If your thermostat is not working, check the batteries. Most units take AA or AAA batteries, and these can sometimes die without you realizing it. Try replacing them and see if that fixes the problem.

Check the power source

If the batteries are not the issue, then you will need to check the power source for your thermostat. Or your thermostat is hardwired into your home’s electrical system, then you will need to check the breaker box to see if the circuit for your thermostat has been tripped.

Provided your thermostat runs on batteries only, then you will need to check that they are properly installed and that the terminals are clean.

Clean the sensors

Another potential issue could be dirty sensors. Thermostats have sensors that detect temperature and humidity, and these can sometimes get dirty or dusty. To clean the sensors, simply use a cotton swab or a soft cloth dampened with rubbing alcohol. Gently wipe down the sensors and be sure to avoid getting any water on them.

Calibrate the thermostat

If your thermostat is still not working correctly, then you may need to calibrate it. This process involves resetting the thermostat and then following a specific set of instructions to ensure that it is calibrated correctly. The exact steps for calibrating a thermostat vary depending on the model, so consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions.

Replace the thermostat

If none of these tips fix the problem, then you may need to replace your thermostat entirely. This is generally a relatively simple process, but it will require you to shut off power to your home’s HVAC system before proceeding. Once you have shut off power, simply remove the old thermostat and install a new one following the manufacturer’s instructions

Call a professional

If you’ve tried all of the above suggestions and your thermostat still isn’t working properly, it’s time to call a professional. A qualified HVAC technician will be able to diagnose and fix any underlying problems with your system

How to prevent future thermostat issues

As a homeowner, you depend on your thermostat to keep your home comfortable. Malfunctions can cause your home to become too hot or too cold. To avoid this problem in the future, there are a few regular maintenance steps you can take.

First, be sure to clean the thermostat’s sensor regularly. This will ensure that it accurately detects the temperature of the room. Second, keep the thermostat away from heat sources, such as lamps or sunlight. These can cause the sensor to give inaccurate readings. Finally, make sure that the thermostat is level. If it is tilted, it may not function properly.

How to fix a broken thermostat at home — Conclusion

If your thermostat is not working, you can try to fix it at home using the above steps. However, if you are not entirely comfortable doing this or it is urgent, please contact an HVAC professional. They will be able to help you get your thermostat up and running again in no time.

Photo by Markus Winkler on Unsplash