At Thompson Electrical Company, we know how critical your thermostat is to maintaining a comfortable home in the Tri-Cities area. Whether you’re in Bristol, Johnson City, or Kingsport, a malfunctioning thermostat can lead to inconsistent temperatures, higher energy bills, and unnecessary strain on your HVAC system.
Here are four telltale signs that your thermostat may need repair—or even replacement.
1. Inaccurate Room Temperature Readings
Does your home feel too cold or hot, even when your thermostat says everything’s fine? That’s a red flag.
When the thermostat’s display doesn’t match the actual room temperature, it could point to:
- A faulty internal sensor
- Placement in an area affected by sunlight, drafts, or appliances that emit heat
Pro Tip: Use a digital room thermometer to compare temperatures. If there’s a consistent mismatch, it’s time to inspect your unit—or consider having it relocated by a professional.
2. It Won’t Hold Your Settings
If you’re setting your thermostat manually—or programming it to match your daily schedule—it should remember those preferences.
When it doesn’t, you might notice:
- The heat or AC running at odd times
- Your settings resetting on their own
- Temperatures not adjusting as scheduled
This could be caused by internal faults or dying batteries. If a quick reset or battery change doesn’t solve the issue, your thermostat may be on its last legs.
3. Lack of Response or a Blank Screen
A thermostat that doesn’t respond when you adjust the temperature—or worse, shows a blank screen—likely isn’t communicating with your HVAC system.
Other possible issues:
- Loose wiring or faulty connections
- A tripped circuit breaker
- Malfunctioning internal components
While some of these fixes may be simple, others require a certified technician to safely resolve.
4. It’s Over 10 Years Old
Older thermostats wear down just like any other household device.
If your unit is more than a decade old, it may be:
- Inaccurate
- Inefficient
- Lacking modern energy-saving features
Replacing it with a newer, programmable or smart thermostat can offer better climate control, more convenience, and lower utility bills throughout all four seasons here in Northeast Tennessee.
Stay Comfortable, Stay in Control
Don’t let a faulty thermostat disrupt your comfort or increase your energy costs. Whether you’re in Bristol, Johnson City, or Kingsport, the experienced team at Thompson Electrical Company is here to help you diagnose thermostat issues and recommend the best solutions.
Call us today at (423) 840-7457
From electrical repairs to HVAC thermostat upgrades, we’ll ensure your home stays comfortable year-round.
