Have you ever wondered if your thermostat is telling the truth? It’s possible that its readings aren’t as spot-on as you think. Even the most cutting-edge devices go haywire without proper thermostat maintenance.
As the go-to HVAC experts in the Old North State, we know a thing or two about the little things that make a big difference in home comfort. Keep reading as we help you create the most consistent indoor temperatures with a little care and attention.
Familiarize Yourself With the Warning Signs
You don’t need special equipment or an advanced degree to sense when something’s off.
Watch out for:
- Temperature fluctuations in different rooms
- The HVAC system constantly cycling on and off
- Higher-than-usual energy bills
- Unresponsive thermostat controls
- Unusual noises from the system
- Error messages
Assess Your Thermostat Sensors
Confirm your suspicions by getting a calibrated thermometer. They’re fairly cheap, and you can often find them at your local hardware store.
Place the device several feet away from your thermostat at the same height and away from drafts or direct sunlight. Set the thermostat at a certain temperature, wait for about an hour, then compare their readings.
A difference of one or two degrees shouldn’t cause alarm. Bigger discrepancies, though, will cost you money and impact your home comfort.
Fixing Your Thermostat
Don’t replace the thermostat just yet! Grab your owner’s manual and perform a little thermostat maintenance.
Find the contacts, which look like small, fin-shaped metal pieces. Do they look clean, or are they covered in grime? Rub them with a soft cloth dipped in isopropyl alcohol.
Check the screws holding the wires and tighten the ones that look loose. You should also replace the batteries when needed. Different setups require different forms of upkeep, so refer to your manual for more specific instructions.
The Rewards of Consistent Care
Many people make the mistake of only servicing their thermostat when there’s an obvious problem. Why wait for the potential headache when you can prevent it entirely? Regular maintenance can improve energy efficiency and keep you from experiencing any unexpected cold or hot spells.
Accurate temperature control also means:
- Extended HVAC appliance lifespan
- Reduced power or gas consumption
- Comfortable living environments
- Fewer unexpected repairs
- Enhanced indoor air quality
Is it Time To Replace Your Device?
Thermostats typically last over a decade with proper care. If yours has reached the 10-year mark and exhibits frequent issues, you might want to upgrade sooner.
Newer models offer more precise temperature control, smart home integration, and energy-saving features that make a real difference. Some even come with learning capabilities; they adapt to your routine and adjust the temperature automatically for optimal comfort.
Your Go-To HVAC Specialists in North Carolina
Do you find yourself struggling to perform thermostat maintenance? Maybe you simply don’t have the time. Leave it to our crew at Trademasters Heating & Cooling instead.
We provide thermostat calibration services for accurate temperature control all year round. Many in Onslow, Carteret, and Craven Counties enjoy cozy living spaces thanks to our expertise.
Dial 252-503-2760 — we also perform cooling and heating maintenance!
