Known for its humid summers and freezing winters, Michigan weather will put any HVAC system to the test, year after year. When your HVAC system acts up and your thermostat isn’t working as it should, a new thermostat from a reliable HVAC contractor can be a simple solution that offers several advantages.
Why a Properly Functioning Thermostat Matters
A properly functioning thermostat is essential for a comfortable home. Functioning as the control center for your heating and cooling systems, your thermostat uses sensors to detect temperature and communicates its reading to HVAC units when it’s time for them to switch on.
By communicating effectively with your HVAC system, your thermostat optimizes the climate in your home and protects your system from undue strain from overworking. As such, thermostats can reduce energy consumption, reduce wear and breakdowns, and extend your system’s lifespan.
7 Telltale Signs Your Thermostat Needs Replacing
Like other parts of your HVAC system, your thermostat can degrade over time and eventually requires replacement. These telltale signs let you know your thermostat is nearing or at its end.
1. Blank or unresponsive screen
If your thermostat has fresh batteries but suddenly lacks power, flashes, or isn’t responsive to adjustments, it may need replacement. If resetting the thermostat doesn’t resolve the problem, you may have wiring problems or faulty components causing your thermostat to not turn on.
2. Short-cycling
Your HVAC unit may cycle on and off in short succession if your thermostat isn’t doing its job properly. Most systems cycle on for about 15 minutes and then turn off, repeating this cycle two or three times an hour. Many other HVAC problems can cause your system to cycle rapidly due to strain, but a professional HVAC technician can help rule get to the root of the cause.
3. Constantly running HVAC units
A faulty thermostat can cause your heater or air conditioner to run continuously. If the thermostat sensor is faulty and doesn’t read the room correctly, it won’t communicate to the AC or heater to turn off once it reaches the target temperature. Thermostat wiring problems, damaged relays and switches, poor placement, or incorrect settings can also cause continuous running.
4. Inaccurate thermostat temperature readings
While minor variation within one or two degrees is fine, a thermostat that displays different readings than the actual temperature of your room can’t accurately control your indoor climate. Consistently incorrect thermostat temperatures may stem from poor placement, faulty sensors, or damaged components — an HVAC professional can recalibrate your thermostat to rule out other problems and determine if the unit requires replacement.
5. Hot and cold spots
A properly functioning thermostat should regulate temperature evenly throughout your home. If your rooms have noticeably different temperatures or hot and cold spots, the problem may stem from a faulty thermostat with a malfunctioning sensor, wiring problems, or non-ideal location. Make sure vents are clear and your ductwork isn’t blocked or damaged to rule out airflow problems — if the problem persists, it’s likely your thermostat.
6. High energy bills
Although you can expect some increases in your energy bills during peak heating or cooling seasons, sudden and inexplicable spikes can point to thermostat problems. Other HVAC components also cause high energy consumption, but as the control center of your system, the thermometer is most often responsible for inefficiencies.
7. Old and obsolete
Most thermostats last about 10 years before they require replacement due to malfunction, lack of reliability, or damage. The thermostat doesn’t have to be broken to warrant a replacement, however — innovations in thermostat technology often push old models to obsoletion even sooner. If your system has a manual thermostat, you may not get the most from your HVAC. Upgrading to a digital and programmable thermostat can boost energy efficiency and convenience in your home.
Benefits of Replacing Your Thermostat
Replacing your thermostat offers several benefits, such as:
- Modern features: New thermostats often feature programmable options for different times of the day or week, allowing your system to automatically adjust when you’re at work or school, arriving home, or asleep.
- Integrated tech options: Generally an upgrade thermostat option compared to programmable thermostats, smart thermostats offer advanced programmable options with automations and learning tools that detect and adapt to your routine. Most can connect to the internet, giving you direct control over the temperature from wherever you are, while providing detailed energy and efficiency reports and integration with other smart home devices.
- Improved comfort: Modern thermostats offer more accurate and reliable temperature regulation compared to aging and manual thermostats. Zoning options allow you to set custom temperatures for each area of your home.
- Energy-efficiency: Accurate temperature readings and energy-efficient geofencing technology in modern thermostats allows for optimized HVAC operation and reduced energy consumption.
Choosing the Right Thermostat for Your Home
Consider these factors when choosing a new thermostat:
- Compatibility: Make sure your new thermostat is compatible with your existing HVAC system by speaking to a technician. They can also check your current wiring setup to determine if it requires alteration or upgrade to suit a new thermostat.
- Price: Thermostats range from $50 to $300 or more depending on various factors. Keep available rebate programs in mind, such as the Inflation Reduction Act, which can offset the cost of a new unit.
- Features: Modern thermostats come with a variety of features, such as HVAC health checkups, learning capabilities, thermostat wi-fi connectivity, and more.
Upgrade or Replace Your Thermostat With Hoover in Michigan
When it’s time for a new thermostat, choose our team of licensed HVAC technicians at Hoover Electric, Plumbing, Heating, and Cooling. In addition to thermostat replacement, we provide furnace maintenance, repair, and installation to keep you warm all winter.
Serving Southeast Michigan since 1980, Hoover offers courteous, professional service. We provide all the services you need for residential maintenance under one roof plus upfront pricing, competitive financing, and free estimates. When you’re looking for top-quality electrical, plumbing, heating, or cooling services in Clinton Township, contact us or schedule your service online.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I fix a wiring problem with my thermostat myself?
While basic wiring can be a simple DIY task for someone with basic electrical know-how, other wiring and electrical jobs should be left to the professionals to ensure safe and correct installation.
When should I call a professional to diagnose or replace my thermostat?
If you’ve exhausted basic troubleshooting, persistent issues with your thermostat or temperature regulation necessitate a visit from an HVAC professional.
