If your home feels too hot or too cold even though your thermostat is set up correctly, you’re not alone. Homeowners across Detroit and the Tri-County area deal with this all the time. Luckily, the problem isn’t always your furnace or AC; it could be your thermostat malfunctioning.
Before you panic or call for repairs, there are a few simple things you can check. Let’s walk through some easy ways to troubleshoot your thermostat and restore your comfort.
Contact us to schedule a fast, reliable service in Metro Detroit or the Tri-County area.
Causes of Thermostat Malfunctions
Thermostats might seem simple, but a lot can go wrong behind the scenes. Here are some of the most common causes of thermostat malfunctions:
- Dead or weak batteries: If your thermostat runs on batteries, they may need to be replaced. Weak batteries can cause screen glitches or shut the unit down completely.
- Loose or damaged wiring: The wires behind the thermostat connect it to your HVAC system. If they’re loose, frayed, or disconnected, your system won’t respond as it should.
- Dirt or dust buildup: Dust inside the thermostat can block sensors or damage internal parts, causing inaccurate temperature readings.
- Old or outdated device: Older models can wear out or struggle to keep up with newer HVAC equipment. If it’s been years since you upgraded, a replacement might be best.
- Improper placement: If your thermostat is in direct sunlight, near vents, or near appliances, it might get false readings. That means your HVAC system could run too much or not enough.
- Software or setting issues: Programmable or smart thermostats can sometimes be the victim of a bad setting, software bug, or failed update. Resetting or reprogramming might resolve the problem.
How To Troubleshoot
Before you assume your HVAC system is the problem, check the thermostat; it might need some attention. Plenty of Metro Detroit homeowners call us with heating or AC issues, only to find out the fix was something simple. Before you pick up the phone, here’s how to troubleshoot it yourself:
Start by checking the power. If your thermostat screen is blank or acting strange, it could just need new batteries. For wired units, check the breaker box. Sometimes, the circuit trips without you realizing it.
Once it has power, make sure the settings are correct. A thermostat accidentally left in “off” or “fan only” mode is more common than you’d think. Double-check that it’s set to “heat” or “cool,” depending on the season, and the temperature is set a few degrees above or below room temperature to trigger a response.
Next, give it a quick clean. Grab a soft cloth or a can of compressed air and gently clear away dust. Buildup inside the thermostat can mess with sensors and throw off the temperature reading.
If nothing changes, try a reset. Some thermostats have a reset button, and others need to be powered down for a few minutes. Resetting can clear up software bugs or strange settings glitches, especially in smart models.
However, the issue might be deeper if your thermostat is still malfunctioning. Loose wiring, outdated hardware, or a miscommunication with your HVAC system isn’t something you want to guess your way through. That’s when it’s time to call a pro.
A trained technician from Detroit Furnace can figure out what’s wrong and get everything working properly without trial and error.
Choose Detroit Furnace for Thermostat Services
When thermostat issues throw off your comfort, Detroit Furnace is ready to help. Our licensed, certified technicians serve homes across Metro Detroit, Wayne, Macomb, and Oakland County with same-day service and honest, hassle-free solutions.
We work on all thermostat brands and offer financing to keep your repair or replacement stress-free.
Having thermostat trouble? Call Detroit Furnace or schedule your service online for fast, reliable help in Metro Detroit.
