The thermostat is the control panel of the HVAC system. When it doesn’t work properly, your heating and cooling systems won’t effectively make your house comfortable. Fortunately, replacing a failing thermostat is a relatively affordable and easy HVAC maintenance task. Use the following guide to identify the signs that it’s time for an upgrade.

When to Replace the Thermostat

1. Short Cycling

Short cycling occurs when the heating or AC units turn on and off repeatedly throughout the day. This is highly inefficient and will likely keep your home at an uncomfortable temperature.

Check that the thermostat is in an optimal location where it can accurately read the temperature. For example, if it’s in front of an AC vent, it will read the house as too cold and tell the system to turn off earlier than necessary. If the thermostat is getting an accurate reading and the system still short cycles, it’s time for an upgrade.

2. No Air

When you change the temperature setting on the thermostat, the HVAC system should respond within a few minutes. If this isn’t happening, have an HVAC maintenance technician check if the system itself is working. If the problem isn’t with the unit, then the thermostat isn’t properly communicating the temperature and needs to be replaced.

3. Unresponsive Screen

When the thermostat has reached the end of its lifespan, the screen will go blank, and you won’t be able to turn it on again. If the screen is blank, try replacing the batteries.

You should be replacing the batteries once a year as part of your HVAC maintenance schedule. If the screen is still blank with fresh sources of power, have a contractor replace the monitor.

The professionals at Glastonbury Burner & Boiler offer a full array of HVAC services for property owners of Hartford County, CT. They have over 31 years of experience providing the latest upgrades at affordable prices. Whether you need a tune-up or a full system replacement, you can count on them for efficient work. They’re also available around the clock for emergency repair needs. See their full list of services online, or call (860) 659-4120 to schedule an appointment.