Is My Thermostat Bad Or Is It My Heater?

At Summit Air Conditioning & Heating, we understand how frustrating it can be when your heater isn’t working properly, especially during the colder season. While the issue can stem from the system itself, it can also occur due to problems with the thermostat. We can help you determine if your heater can be repaired or if your thermostat requires service.

If your unit isn’t responding, our experts are here to help with professional heating repair! Our team explores common issues with thermostats and furnaces and what happens when a thermostat isn’t functioning properly.

Can A New Thermostat Be Bad?

While thermostats are designed to last for years, they can sometimes malfunction — even new ones. Though it’s rare, a new thermostat can be inefficient out of the box. If your device is brand new and isn’t working as expected, it could be due to a factory defect, improper installation or incorrect settings.

In some cases, a poor connection or wiring issue may cause the system to fail. If you’ve recently installed a new thermostat and are having trouble, it’s best to call in a professional technician from Summit Air Conditioning & Heating. We can inspect the installation and troubleshoot the issue.

What Happens When A Thermostat Goes Bad?

A malfunctioning thermostat can lead to several issues that affect your heating system’s performance. Here are some common signs of a bad thermostat:

• Inaccurate temperature readings — The thermostat may give incorrect readings, causing your heater to turn on or off at the wrong times.
• No heat — If the thermostat isn’t sending the correct signals to the unit, your home won’t warm up as expected.
• Constant cycling — Malfunctions can cause the furnace to cycle on and off too frequently.
• Unresponsive to adjustments — If changing the temperature on the thermostat doesn’t prompt the heater to turn on or off, it can indicate an issue with the device itself.
• Temperature fluctuations — You may experience inconsistent heating, where certain areas of the house are too hot or too cold.

How To Test A Thermostat In A House

Testing your thermostat is one of the first steps in diagnosing heating problems. Below is a simple process to check if your thermostat is working properly.

Step 1: Check The Temperature Settings

Make sure your thermostat is set to the heating mode — not cooling — and that the temperature is set higher than the current room temperature. If the thermostat is set correctly, move on to the next steps.

Step 2: Test The Response

Adjust the thermostat by a few degrees and listen for the furnace to turn on. If the unit doesn’t respond, it could indicate an issue with the thermostat, wiring or the unit itself.

Step 3: Inspect For Obstructions

Sometimes, thermostats can be affected by dirt or dust. Check to see if there are any obstructions around your thermostat. Dust or debris can cause the thermostat to give inaccurate readings, which could affect the furnace’s performance.

Step 4: Change The Batteries (If Applicable)

If your thermostat is battery-operated, check the batteries. Low or dead batteries can cause the thermostat to malfunction. Replacing the batteries may resolve the issue.
If these steps don’t fix the problem, it’s time to consider calling our team for professional heater services.

How To Tell If Your Heater Is The Problem

If your thermostat appears to be working but your heating system is malfunctioning, it’s time to check the unit itself.

1. Check The Power Source

Ensure the heating system is receiving power. Sometimes, the issue may be as simple as a tripped circuit breaker or a blown fuse. Check your electrical panel for any issues.

2. Listen For The Heater’s Startup

Turn up the thermostat and listen closely. If you don’t hear the usual startup sounds from your heating system or notice fan movement, the issue may be within the unit itself. It could be a faulty component, such as the blower motor or the heat exchanger.

3. Check The Airflow

Poor airflow can also affect your unit’s performance. Ensure that air filters are clean, vents are open and nothing is blocking the airflow. Airflow restrictions can make it seem like your unit isn’t working properly, even if the system itself is fine.

4. Inspect For Faulty Ignition Or Pilot Light

If you have a gas furnace, check the ignition system or pilot light. If the flame is out or there’s an issue with ignition, your system won’t be able to generate heat.

Is It Your Thermostat Or Furnace? Find Out With Summit AC!

If you’re experiencing issues with your heating system, it’s important to determine whether the thermostat is the problem or if the heater itself is malfunctioning. At Summit Air Conditioning & Heating, we’re here to help you troubleshoot both critical devices.

Whether it’s a simple thermostat replacement or a more complex furnace repair, our experienced technicians in College Station, TX, are just a call away. Contact us today to ensure your home stays warm and comfortable all year round.