Your thermostat controls your home’s central heating and cooling system. When it runs into problems, it can make your system stop working. You can troubleshoot and repair minor thermostat issues. If your efforts don’t work, you’ll have to replace it.
Here are some steps you can take to determine if you need a thermostat replacement.
- Change the thermostat setting – In the heating season, change the setting to 5 degrees higher than normal, and 5 degrees lower in the cooling season. Wait for a few minutes to see whether the appropriate system comes on in response.
- Check for other potential problems – Ensure your system’s main circuit breaker is in the “on” position and the thermostat is set to “Heat” or “Cool” depending on the season.
- Switch off the power – Turn off the heating and cooling system’s power by switching off the appropriate circuit breaker.
- Remove the cover – Pry the thermostat cover gently off the device.
- Inspect the wiring inside the thermostat – Make sure each wire is firmly attached to its mounting screw. Reattach loose wiring and tighten any loose screws.
- Repeat the first step – Switch on the circuit breaker and see if the system will run by repeating step one (changing the thermostat setting). If it doesn’t, turn the power back off.
- Choose the right wires – If it’s your air conditioning system that’s not running, choose the red and green wires inside the thermostat. If it’s your furnace, select the red and white wires.
- Unscrew the wires – Disconnect the two wires from the terminals. As you unscrew the wires, grip them to keep them from falling behind the wall.
- Wrap the wires – Wrap them together and flip the breaker back on. If the blower kicks on, you’ll need to replace your thermostat.
It’s more economical to replace a thermostat than to let one that doesn’t work right run. For more thermostat replacement tips, contact us at Ace Hardware Home Services. We serve the Dayton area.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Dayton, Ohio about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).
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