Programmable thermostats are well known for their money-saving features that improve heating and cooling efficiency while also reducing monthly costs for indoor comfort. Problems with these thermostats, however, can eliminate one of the device’s most useful features: the ability to schedule when, how long, and at what level an HVAC system operates. Here are some of the main reasons why a programmable thermostat won’t keep its schedule:
Why Worry about the Scheduling Feature?
A programmable thermostat’s ability to schedule HVAC system operation through the use of set points is probably the main feature that makes it popular. With set point scheduling, you can cause the heating or cooling system to run at a much lower rate when it is not needed, such as when you and your family are out of the house for the day. The thermostat can be programmed to automatically increase indoor heating or cooling before you get home, ensuring that your home’s interior is comfortable when you arrive. You save money by not running the HVAC system as much when you don’t need it while maintaining the exact level of comfort you want in your home.
Potential Problems That Affect Thermostat Scheduling
- Run-down batteries: If the thermostat’s batteries are weak, it won’t function properly and will likely lose the setting’s you’ve programmed into it. For thermostats that are wired directly into the home’s electrical system, make sure circuit breakers haven’t been tripped.
- Loose wires: Loose wires or terminal screws inside the thermostat mean that electrical connections aren’t secure. Tighten these connections.
- Dirty thermostat: Dust, dirt, cobwebs, and other material can foul the inside of the thermostat, causing problems with electrical connections. Clean the thermostat and see if that helps.
- Failing thermostat: Your programmable thermostat may be ready to fail and, if so, it won’t hold its schedule settings. Replacement may be necessary.
Arpi’s Industries Ltd. has been serving plumbing, heating, and cooling customers in Calgary and the nearby communities for more than 50 years. Contact us today for more information on programmable thermostats and for help with figuring out if your thermostat needs to be replaced.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Calgary, Alberta about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about thermostats and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Guide.
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