Wondering what’s making your programmable thermostat not reach its set temperature? Well, you aren’t alone, as many homeowners are grappling with this problem. When it’s brutally cold or scorching hot outside, and the room temp shown on the thermostat screen can’t reach what you set it to be, it can be downright frustrating. So, what do you do when the room temperature doesn’t match the thermostat setting? In this post, we’ll take a look at the most common causes of this issue and explore the best solutions for it.
And if going the DIY route doesn't work, it's time to consult an HVAC professional. If you are in the Baltimore metro area and need a quicker and lasting fix or thermostat replacement, SuperTech has your back. And when you move into a new home, make sure you get an HVAC inspection so that you can avoid your thermostat not reaching the set temperature.
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What Should I Do When My Thermostat's Not Reaching Its Set Temperature?
Recalibrate the Thermostat
If your home or business fails to reach your preferred temperature setting, you may be dealing with a malfunctioning thermostat. Just like any other device, your thermostat may experience technical glitches from time to time. If the program it uses fails, it won't assess the temperatures correctly or give the actual readings. If you would like to learn how to check your thermostat's programming, check out our blog discussing why your thermostat isn't working.
Something else you can do is purchase an AC-specific thermometer: to use it, place it near the thermostat and compare the difference between the two readings. Then use the thermometer readings and the thermostat’s user manuals to recalibrate the thermostat.
Redo the Thermostat Wiring
If you just bought a new thermostat and it has been problematic since the installation, the problem could be the wiring. This mostly happens after a DIY installation. Other times, corrosion and lint can build up on the wiring and prevent the current from passing through.
If either of these is the case, call an HVAC technician to inspect and redo your thermostat's wiring. They have the knowledge to get the issue fixed!
Thermostat Not Reaching Set Temperature? Clean the Thermostat
Sometimes, when the room temperature doesn’t match the thermostat setting, the problem could be dirt buildup on its interior parts.
A dirt coating around the inner components may create excess heat and cause the thermostat to give the wrong readings. To clean the thermostat, remove the faceplate and use a clean, soft brush to gently wipe away the dirt.
As part of our furnace maintenance or air conditioning tune-up, a professional will inspect and clean the wiring of your thermostat so you won't have to worry about this issue!
Keep Your Old-Model Mechanical Thermostat Level
Old round-dial thermostats don’t function properly if their internal components aren’t level. Unlike a common digital thermostat, a mechanical thermostat relies on bimetal springs and a mercury switch that lays horizontally in the device to adjust the temperature. If the switch tilts, it affects the accuracy.
To correct the broken thermostat, remove its faceplate, look for the glass mercury tube, and balance it using a small level. Even better, you can swap out the old, faulty thermostat for a more efficient, modern thermostat.
Reboot The Thermostat If It’s Frozen
If there is an issue with the static electricity around your thermostat, the touch screen may freeze and fail to display any data updates.
In such a situation, it’s hard to notice that your electronic thermostat isn’t reaching the correct temperature. The best solution is to switch off the device, wait at least 10 seconds, and switch it on.
Replace Your Old Thermostat
If your device is simply too old, don’t be surprised if the room temperature doesn’t match the thermostat setting.
An old thermostat may fail to read the correct temperatures of your home, sending the wrong information to the furnace, air conditioner, or heat pump. And without accurate information, the heating and cooling unit can’t deliver the specific temperatures you want. So, consider getting a thermostat upgrade.
Relocate Your Thermostat
If your thermostat is located near a window that receives a lot of direct sunlight or is near the fireplace or kitchen, the extra warmth in such areas may trick the temperature sensor into thinking there is more warm air in the house than there is. That means your thermostat can’t sense the general indoor temps correctly.
If this is the case, have a licensed HVAC expert to relocate it. They will help you find the best spot to relocate it to.
Other Solutions When The Thermostat Fails To Reach The Set Temperature
Sort Any HVAC Equipment Issues That Could Affect The Temperatures
Your thermostat could be working correctly, but your air conditioner or furnace may be the reason why your indoor space is not reaching the set desired temperature. Here are two steps you can take:
Clean your Air Filters, Vents, and Ducts – A clogged air filter will struggle to meet the thermostat’s set temperature since the dirt and debris buildup prevents air from circulating through the vents. And as airflow into living spaces drops, so do comfort levels. Fortunately, taking care of your filter, vents, and ductwork will help improve circulation and allow your HVAC system to meet thermostat settings effortlessly.
Start by replacing your air filters. Thoroughly wash the vents and partner with a licensed HVAC specialist to clean the ductwork. They’ll also look for leaks in the duct system that are causing heated air to escape.
Properly Size Your HVAC Unit – Did a professional HVAC contractor inspect your home before installing your new heating or cooling system? If the installation company didn’t follow the right HVAC system sizing procedure, you could be looking at an AC unit or furnace that is too big or small for your home.
Such a unit won’t deliver the same comfort levels as a properly sized one. If you find yourself in this scenario, consult a qualified professional to find out the best way forward.
Explore Other Methods When Outdoor Temperature Is Record-Breaking
Extreme weather outside your home may make the thermostat not reach set temperature. Sometimes your HVAC system just can’t keep up with the record-shattering outdoor temps, especially if its capacity is not designed to do so.
In this situation, deploy other methods such as closing windows and drapes, sealing any leaky areas around your home, and using a ceiling fan if it’s hot.
You Tried Everything. Now Let SuperTech Get You Comfortable!
Have An HVAC Expert Troubleshoot And Fix Your Thermostat Not Reaching Set Temperature Problems
When you lower or crank up the thermostat settings, you expect it to work its magic. When it fails you, and all the solutions fail, your best bet is to partner with SuperTech- Baltimore's top HVAC contractor!
At SuperTech, we have a team of competent technicians that has the skill, experience, and resources to fix any bad thermostat or any HVAC problem you encounter. Feel free to give us a call or schedule online.