Winter in central Wisconsin is notoriously cold, and if you have a central HVAC system, it’s the worst time of year to be without a properly functioning thermostat. Typically, HVAC thermostats last approximately 10 years, so if you know you’re due for a replacement, autumn is a perfect time to take care of that.
If, however, your device hasn’t hit its age threshold yet, but your HVAC system is acting odd, its temperature control unit (aka the thermostat) could be faulty. How do you know if that’s indeed the case?
Read on to learn about five of the most common signs that your thermostat needs to be replaced.
1. Random Pockets of Cool or Warm Air
Do you notice random pockets of warm or cool air in odd locations when you move about your home? You may assume these air pockets are due to drafty doors and windows, but often, they’re a result of a malfunctioning thermostat.
When your thermostat doesn’t function as designed, it affects the air distribution of your HVAC system, which often results in uneven heating and cooling. However, a malfunctioning furnace could also be the culprit. In either case, you’ll need a heating and cooling professional to diagnose and repair the issue.
2. Unusually High Heating and Cooling Costs
Have your utility bills risen over time? Or did you notice a sudden increase over what you normally pay? Growing heating and cooling costs are typically due to one of two issues: a malfunctioning HVAC system or a faulty thermostat.
If your thermostat is the culprit, it’s likely having difficulty communicating with your furnace or air conditioner to maintain a constant temperature within your home. As the temperature fluctuates randomly, it decreases the efficiency of your heating and cooling system, which often results in exorbitant energy costs.
Want to save some money this winter season? Check out these four ways you can heat your home for less!
3. Uncontrolled Temperature Fluctuations
If you feel your home is gradually heating up or cooling down without adjusting your thermostat, it’s likely time to replace the unit.
A malfunctioning or outdated thermostat has trouble communicating with your furnace to maintain a constant temperature. The issue may stem from faulty wiring, or, in some cases, the problem may require furnace repair.
Regardless of the issue’s source, it’s critical that you contact a qualified heating repair professional to diagnose the problem. A properly functioning HVAC system is crucial if you hope to maintain a warm and welcoming home throughout the winter.
4. Frequent Cycling (aka Short Cycling)
Have you noticed your air conditioner or furnace cycling on and off more often than usual? Does it shut off before it runs for at least 15 minutes? If so, that may indicate a problem with the thermostat.
This issue can occur when the thermostat isn’t properly calibrated and sometimes when wiring issues are present. Sometimes, short cycling can be caused by a much simpler issue: a furnace filter that’s far too dirty.
Before you assume your thermostat is causing the short cycling:
1. Check out your HVAC filter.
2. If it’s looking pretty nasty, swap it out for a new one and see if that solves your issue.
3. If the frequent cycling continues, call a furnace repair specialist to schedule an inspection.
A pro can quickly diagnose the issue and fix the thermostat if that’s indeed the culprit. If you don’t already have a go-to guy, here’s how to find the best furnace repair company in your area.
5. Failure to Respond to Setting Adjustments
If you adjust the temperature setting on your thermostat and your furnace or air conditioner doesn’t promptly turn on, your unit may be faulty and in need of replacement. But it could be totally fine, too.
Sometimes, thermostats randomly reset or lose their programming. If that’s what happened to your device, it could be messing with the responsiveness of your heating and/or cooling unit when you manually adjust the temperature.
So how do you determine whether you need a new thermostat or just need to fix its settings? First, try setting the temperature 10 degrees warmer than the current setting. If your furnace doesn’t turn on within a few seconds, double-check that the thermostat is set to “heat.”
If it’s on the heat setting, and the heat still doesn’t come on, you probably need a new thermostat or, at the very least, a quick repair. At this point, you’ll want to bring in a heating and cooling specialist who can fully diagnose the issue and ensure it’s not due to a wiring problem with your furnace.
While you’re here, check out how to tell if you might need furnace repairs. And if you do end up needing a replacement, check out how to choose the right thermostat to maximize your HVAC efficiency.
Need Heating and Cooling Repair Near Wisconsin Rapids?
At Steve’s Plumbing and Heating, we know winter is a terrible time to be without a properly functioning thermostat. If you believe it’s finally time for a replacement, then it’s time to give us a call.
Our team has over 85 years of combined experience serving homeowners throughout central Wisconsin, and we’d be honored to make you our next fully satisfied customer. We offer the best guarantees in the business, and we pride ourselves on our prompt, friendly, and high-quality service.
To learn more about our heating and cooling services or to schedule your appointment, feel free to contact our team. Or, if you know you’re ready to get started, go ahead and request your free estimate!