3 Signs That The Thermostat Needs Replacement
No matter how advanced an HVAC system is, if the thermostat is not working properly, the entire system will not function properly. Like the rudder of a large maritime vessel, the thermostat is a small device that directs the whole system.
The word thermostat is a combination of Latin roots that mean static temperature. The thermostat, therefore, sets the temperature goal for the HVAC system. Its job is to maintain temperature. Below are several ways a home’s thermostat may show that it needs repair or replacement.
Skyrocketing Utility Bills
One of the most painful ways to notice the HVAC system isn’t functioning properly is when it hits the wallet. While a homeowner may expect their energy bill to be higher during late summer, if there is an extreme, out-of-the-ordinary increase without any explanation, it may be time to call in a professional to have a look because it can be a big sign that something is wrong.
The thermostat may be involved with the higher utility bills for the following reasons:
- Overwork: If the thermostat isn’t registering the correct temperature, the AC or heater may have to work extra hard to reach desired temperatures, increasing utility bill costs.
- Short Cycling: The constant turning on and off that happens with short cycling uses up much more energy than the normal running cycle, increasing utility bill costs.
Thermostat Reads An Inaccurate Temperature
If a thermostat is nonfunctioning, then it may have incorrect temperature readings. This means it is inaccurately measuring the temperature in the house and communicating this to the system, making the home either too hot or too cold. Though a homeowner may feel that it is either too cold or hot, there is an easy way to verify if a thermostat is reading the temperature properly. To conduct this test, a person will need tape, a thermometer, and a paper towel.
- Place the paper towel against the wall near the thermostat.
- Tape the paper towel in place.
- Tape the thermometer to the paper towel (This helps accuracy by insulating the thermometer from heat or cold in the wall.)
- Leave the thermometer there for 15-20 minutes.
- Check to see if the thermostat and the thermometer register a similar temperature.
- If there is more than a 3-degree temperature difference, the thermostat may need to be replaced.
Short Cycling
One of the most annoying broken thermostat symptoms is short cycling. This means the HVAC system or the blower turns on for only short periods and then turns off. This can be caused by a short in the thermostat that makes it overload, overheat, and switch off. When it occurs, the system frequently turns on and off.
Short cycling also means that the system does not complete a full cooling or heating cycle, which can cause problems and waste energy throughout the whole system. Short cycling should not be ignored because it creates a lot of wear and tear and can cause other issues with the system. When any signs of thermostat issues are noticed, homeowners should call a professional before any damage can worsen.
About Hancock & Son Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning
Hancock & Son Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning is a locally owned and operated company serving its neighbors in Salisbury, MD, and the surrounding areas. They offer honest pricing, 24/7 emergency service, and personalized service options. Call them today for thermostat services in Salisbury, MD.
