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Signs to Replace the Thermostat

Posted on September 21, 2022 by

Signs of a Faulty Thermostat 

Many homeowners don’t understand the importance of their thermostats. These devices do more than read the home’s indoor temperature; they also communicate with the HVAC system to get the house to the desired comfort level. It’s crucial these devices work as expected. Otherwise, it could be impossible to regulate how hot or cold the home gets. 

Thermostats usually don’t break down overnight. There are typically warning signs before this happens. This blog discusses some of the symptoms of a faulty thermostat that alert homeowners they should reach out to a professional.

Higher Energy Bills

billEveryone should have a basic idea of how much their energy bills are each month––especially when it comes to gas and electricity.  If the energy bills seem much higher than normal, but energy usage has stayed relatively the same, the AC unit or heater may be working overtime. 

Consider this example to learn more: 

  • A homeowner wants their condo to reach 70 degrees. 
  • They set the thermostat to that temperature. 
  • Unfortunately, the home may never reach the correct temperature if the thermostat isn’t properly reading the temperature or communicating with the AC unit. 
  • When the AC unit tries to cool the home to that temperature but cannot read the temperature right, it may run for too long or a short cycle. 
  • This, in turn, causes the unit to overwork resulting in higher-than-usual energy bills. 

Overworking the AC system can cause more than high energy bills; it can also shorten the AC’s lifespan through additional wear and tear. AC systems generally last 15 to 20 years. However, wear and tear from overworking could significantly reduce that lifespan. 

Incorrect Temperature Readings 

readings

There are many reasons why the thermostat may give a false temperature reading. For instance, it could be located in the wrong part of the house. A draft that keeps affecting the thermostat’s readings could also be a problem. 

Before concluding that the thermostat is broken, one should try replacing the batteries in the thermostat. Homeowners can also check the accuracy of the temperature on the thermostat by comparing it with a thermometer. 

However, if the thermostat cannot regulate the home’s temperature, chances are, it’s a problem with the sensor. In this instance, replacing the thermostat is better and typically more cost-effective than repairing the sensor. There are many programmable and smart thermostats on today’s market that: 

  • Pair with smartphones 
  • Allow users to give remote instructions 
  • Predict how much the energy bill will be each month 
  • Offer energy-saving features that save homeowners money 

Short Cycling 

Another sign of a faulty thermostat is short cycling. When the air conditioner short cycles, it only stays on for short periods before turning off. This is not ideal. The AC system should stay on for at least 15 minutes to achieve the desired temperature and then shut off. However, when the AC short cycles, it stays on for 10 minutes or less at a time, then shuts off, and then turns back on for another brief period. 

This doesn’t get the home to the right temperature. It causes the AC to overwork itself rather than take breaks after being on for 15 minutes which can cause additional wear and tear to the system. But what does this have to do with the thermostat? It means the thermostat isn’t communicating correctly with the HVAC system. 

About RupCoe Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning 

RupCoe Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning is a family-owned and operated business serving South Plainfield, NJ, and the surrounding areas for over 30 years. They offer upfront pricing, fast turnarounds, and attention to detail. Call them today for thermostat services in South Plainfield, NJ.

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