It can be really frustrating and uncomfortable when it is very cold or hot outside, and the thermostat can’t reach the temperature you set. There are various reasons why this happens. In this post, we will look at some of the common causes of this problem.
Thermostat is dirty
A buildup of dust and dirt on the thermostat and its mechanical contacts can cause it to malfunction, and it may not be able to read the settings. If you notice any dirt, dust, or signs of corrosion, clean the thermostat properly. For corrosion, you might need an electrical contact cleaner.
Broken thermostat
If the thermostat shows the set temperature on the screen but does not reach it, then it could be broken. You can use a thermometer to check the temperature of the air surrounding the thermostat to confirm if the thermostat is actually reaching the temperature it is displaying. There is nothing you can do about a broken thermostat. It is best to have a technician repair or replace it as required.
Improper calibration
If your thermostat isn’t calibrated correctly, it could prevent it from reaching the set temperature. This normally happens when the thermostat is new or has just experienced a power outage. However, sometimes, older thermostats may also need recalibration. If your unit needs frequent recalibration, it is better to invest in a new thermostat.
Loose wiring
This is another common problem that can cause a thermostat to not reach the set temperature. Loose wiring can cause display issues with the thermostat and lead to temperature problems. Sometimes, corroded wires are also responsible for temperature problems. Call a technician who can open up your thermostat and determine the problem. In most cases, the problem is easy to fix.
Power loss
If your thermostat loses power, it will be unable to reach the set temperature. This can lead to your house not cooling or heating to the right temperature. It is most commonly caused by corroded or loose wiring, which can turn the thermostat blank and it won’t be able to work properly.
Frozen thermostat
If you have a smart thermostat, static electricity around the unit can cause the device to freeze up. This means the thermostat fails to send signals and data it collects back to the HVAC system. This prevents the thermostat from reaching the set temperature. In most cases, rebooting the thermostat can solve the problem.
Dysfunctional fan
In some cases, the problem is not that the thermostat is failing to respond to the temperature settings, but the problem lies in the fan and its connection with the furnace. If the fan is blowing cold air even after it has been switched off, it could be the thermostat’s fault for failing to send the correct signal. You should check the wiring on the thermostat and ensure that it is correct.
Thermostat size
The size of the thermostat could be a reason why your home is colder than the thermostat setting. If the thermostat temperature is too small to cover the size of your house, the central heat will not reach every part of your house. Getting the right size thermostat can solve this problem immediately.
If you are facing any problems with your thermostat or any other part of the HVAC system, get in touch with us right away. Our team of highly trained technicians can run diagnostics, identify, and effectively fix your problem.