Thermostat Installation and Repair

A malfunctioning thermostat can produce several symptoms. The first is that it's no longer giving inconsistent temperature readings. The second is that the user interface seems a bit "on the fritz," and in certain cases, just plain unresponsive. The third is that the HVAC system itself is now operating in a bi-modal way, which is a way of saying "system cycling" that humans can understand. If you notice any of these signs and also feel a strange and sudden urge to look at previous energy bills, ask yourself what kind of report card your heating and cooling system has been earning.

Numerous thermostat varieties exist, encompassing mechanical, digital, programmable, and smart thermostats. The oldest technology, mechanical thermostats, operates using a mercury switch—a very simple, yet effective, method of controlling temperature. Digital thermostats are a step up in technology and provide much easier reading and, often, more precise control. With the advent of the WiFi-connected smart home, we enter the territory of smart thermostats—thermostats that provide smartphone control and other advanced features.

Although some homeowners can do it themselves, installing a thermostat is best left to a qualified professional. An HVAC technician who knows what he or she is doing can guarantee a safe, efficient, and accurate installation. Some thermostat models are more conducive to a DIY installation than others, but if we are being honest, most homeowners are far better off hiring a pro. Complicated wiring, thermostat calibrations, and system checks can leave even some pretty handy folks scratching their heads. There is also the worry of what could happen if the installation is not done right.

A thermostat's lifespan can range from 10 to 15 years and is generally a function of the type and quality of the unit. Today's technological advancements in the field mean that even basic new models are significantly better at providing energy efficiency and peak performance than old models. If your thermostat is more than 10 years old, it might be time to consider replacing it with something that will save you money and might work with new features in your home.

You can find many different types of thermostats, and their installation costs vary because of that. The simplest of the bunch, manual thermostats, have very low prices, and you can find them for as little as $20. Something much more common today, however, is the smart thermostat, which is a good way to find out just how far prices can go. You can find smart thermostats for anywhere from $100 to over $300, and that's before you even think about having a pro do the installation. And chances are good that if you go the smart route, you'll want to hire someone to put it in for you.

Advanced algorithms are used by smart thermostats to glean your temperature preferences and generate efficient heating and cooling schedules. They can automatically adjust temperatures for when you're away or cozy in bed, and many models offer detailed energy reports. You can even control some of them via an app, which is fun and super convenient. In fact, we should be so lucky as to have some utility companies offer rebates for installing these smart, energy-efficient devices.

In case your thermostat is not functioning as it should, the initial and most basic step you should take is to check the batteries and replace them if necessary. If the batteries are fine, see if the circuit breaker for your HVAC system has tripped and reset it if needed. Next, ensure that the thermostat is clean, and check for any dust or debris that might be interfering with its operation. If the HVAC system circuit breaker has not tripped, the thermostat is connected properly, it is clean, and there is still no heat, you might need to troubleshoot further by contacting an HVAC technician.

The development in technology and signal transmission has led to an enhanced wireless thermostat. These modern devices allow users the luxury of choosing a location that is most accommodating to them. A wireless thermostat can be easily incorporated into a smart home and can even partake in "smart home" commands. For most people, modern wireless thermostats are as reliable as their wired counterparts, but a few specific factors can impact their performance. One is distance; if a signal has to travel too far, it may come through weak and garbled.

When picking a new thermostat, it's essential to consider three primary aspects: the compatibility of your HVAC system, desired features, and your budget. Start by ensuring that the new controls will work with the type and amount of heat (or cool) that your system produces. Then, think through the level of control you want. If you're going relatively basic, that's fine. But if you're contemplating a "smart" system, which could be more beneficial over the long haul, ensure you've got a handle on the amount of control possible.

Routine maintenance of a thermostat entails periodic cleaning to eliminate dust and debris. You should check it and replace the batteries annually or as the manufacturer recommends. Next, compare the temperature readings on the thermostat with a separate thermometer to see if they match. If they don't, a professional should recalibrate the thermostat. Speaking of professionals, yours should inspect the entire HVAC system on a regular basis to make sure it's running as it should and that the thermostat's efficiency is up to snuff.