Simply put, the thermostat in your home is the brain of your HVAC system. When your brain isn’t working properly, there’s a good chance nothing else is working properly. The same is true for the thermostat.
Bad thermostats can cause all sorts of problems, especially high energy bills and a serious lack of efficiency. The heating and cooling professionals at Rusk share the reasons behind a thermostat not turning on and the tell-tale signs you need a new thermostat.
Whether it’s high bills or no heating or cooling, you can trust the pros at Rusk for all of your HVAC-related needs.
Why Is the Thermostat Not Turning On?
Every once in a while, it’s possible that your thermostat will not turn on. This is a very frustrating problem for homeowners that we see all the time.
The home’s heating and air conditioning system cannot receive communications when the thermostat has shut down. Here are a few common reasons behind a thermostat not turning on as well as possible solutions to get your controls back online quickly.
Batteries Are Dead
Some homes have hardwired thermostats that get power from the electrical system, while other units still rely on battery power. It’s wise to replace thermostat batteries about every 6 months even when the batteries aren’t low to avoid future issues.
Circuit Breaker Has Tripped
Now about those hardwired thermostats. While you don’t have battery problems to worry about, you do have to watch the breakers. A breaker can trip for a number of reasons and when it does, it cuts off electricity to the entire circuit. A tripped breaker will certainly be responsible for your thermostat not turning on, but it is an easy fix.
Signs You Need a New Thermostat Installed in Your Home
Thermostats tend to respond instantly to changes. As soon as you adjust the thermostat, you hear your HVAC system turn on. Some thermostats just need to be repaired, but sometimes having a professional replace your thermostat is a better solution. However, some thermostats are hard-wired into the wall, and the fix isn’t that easy. These are some common signs you need a new thermostat.
Heating and Cooling System Won’t Turn On or Off
Every year before you rely on your heater in the winter or air conditioning in the summer, it’s a good idea to test your system. If your system doesn’t turn on, several issues could be at play. One common culprit is the thermostat. If your thermostat cannot engage the heater or the air conditioner to turn on or off, then replacing it is a good first thing to try.
Thermostat Is Over 10 Years Old
Furnaces and air conditioners tend to last between 15-20 years. Thermostats usually last around 10 years. It’s always a good idea to get a new thermostat when you upgrade your HVAC equipment to ensure that it is compatible. If you have a non-programmable thermostat, consider upgrading to a smart or programmable thermostat.
Controls Are Unlit and Unresponsive
Another sign of a malfunctioning thermostat is if it is not responding to your controls. If you have to hit the display multiple times for your screen to register your commands, then this could mean your thermostat is on its last legs. If you have a digital thermostat and the screen is not illuminating or you can not access the thermostat settings, then it could be dead. Some thermostats run on batteries, but others do not. If you’re experiencing unresponsive controls or a thermostat blank screen and your thermostat is hard-wired to the wall, then it’s time for an upgrade.
Upgrade to a Programmable Smart Thermostat
If your thermostat isn’t working, you could replace it with a similar digital thermostat, or you could make your heating and cooling system smarter by upgrading to a smart thermostat. A smart thermostat allows you to pre-set the temperature in your home, control the thermostat remotely from your smartphone and receive regular reports on energy usage in your home.
Some models of smart thermostats predict customers will save 10-12% on heating costs and 15% on cooling costs. Certain models can provide diagnostic capabilities to monitor your HVAC system and let you know if your unit needs maintenance. This makes operating the home thermostat easier than ever before.
Call Rusk to Have a New Thermostat Installed in Your Home
Heating and cooling issues can be a serious inconvenience for homeowners everywhere. Luckily, replacing your home’s thermostat can solve a lot of these issues inexpensively. Call the HVAC professionals at Rusk Heating & Cooling to see if you are experiencing signs of a failing thermostat and other possible issues that are raising your energy bills.
Our technicians are happy to answer all of your questions about smart thermostats and help you decide which brand would be best for you. Schedule service with Northern Kentucky and Greater Cincinnati’s trusted HVAC team at Rusk today if your thermostat is not turning on.