Thermostat Know-How
Advancements in thermostat technology are pretty cool. There are a lot more features and settings than there used to be! However, this can also lead to confusion among homeowners on programming the temperature correctly. In this article, homeowners can learn the basics of thermostats, how they work, and what causes common problems.
Understanding Thermostat Basics
The purpose of a thermostat is pretty simple: the device allows homeowners to control the temperature of their homes. The activation of various buttons communicates with the HVAC system to adjust to a new consistent temperature by turning the heat on or off. So for example, if someone has increased the temperature on the thermostat, the heat will automatically kick in to warm the house until it reaches that desired temperature.One thing that homeowners should be aware of is the placement of the thermostat in their house. If the thermostat is in direct sunlight, it can read the higher temperature and think that the house is warmer than it actually is, leaving the rest of the house to be cooler than the set temperature. If homeowners are facing this problem, they may want to consider moving the thermostat away from large windows or doors.
Is the Thermostat Broken?
Thermostats will last for a while. They last an average of 10 years, but old age is one of the most common reasons for a thermostat breakdown. When the device is constantly tasked with the role of heating and cooling the house, its components are bound to wear down. But there are a few other common reasons for thermostats to break down. - Thermostats read the temperature of the air around the device. If the temperature is too hot, the device can get overheated, which can result in inaccurate temperature readings or damage to the thermostat’s components.
- A thermostat can get dusty and dirty just sitting on the wall. This contamination can impact the device’s functionality and cause it to stop working properly.
- Though manufacturing defects aren’t common, it can be another cause of a malfunctioning thermostat. Though this can’t be prevented by a homeowner, they may be able to get the device exchanged if they notice a problem.
HVAC Maintenance Helps Prevent Thermostat Breakdowns
Not every thermostat issue can be prevented, such as manufacturing defects, but a bit of maintenance can go a long way in extending the lifespan of the device. The most important tip that homeowners should remember is to keep the thermostat clean. When the thermostat sits uncovered on the wall, dust and dirt particles can overheat the device components and cause it to malfunction.
Bonus tip: check the batteries! Oftentimes when a thermostat malfunctions, it’s not a mechanical issue at all; it’s simply dead batteries. However, if homeowners try cleaning the device, putting in new batteries, and it still is malfunctioning, it’s best to call an HVAC professional that can identify the underlying issue.
About Alberta Indoor Comfort
Alberta Indoor Comfort is Calgary’s one-stop-shop for plumbing, heating, cooling, air quality, accessibility, and home automation. They believe that a home should be a place that is fully functional and optimized for each homeowner’s specific needs. With timely service, upfront pricing, and personalized attention, their expert technicians are sure to satisfy customers every time.
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