Thermostats can lose calibration over time from being accidentally bumped or from dirt accumulating. An improperly calibrated thermostat can cause discomfort because it's not
If both your thermometer and your thermostat display the same temperature reading, the thermostat's accuracy and efficiency are good. A difference of 3 degrees or less is generally nothing to worry about. If the readings are different, there is likely an issue affecting your thermostat's function.
That usually means that the thermostat sensor is faulty. You have two options. Change the thermostat, or simply ask for a higher temperature. So press the up arrow a few times to change the 74 to 78 and you should feel warmer.
A common oversight for a thermostat showing the wrong temperature is the state of its batteries. Dead or low-power batteries can lead to inaccurate readings. Simply replacing the batteries might restore your thermostat's accuracy and functionality.
Outdated HVAC thermostats don't always give accurate temperature readings because of their low efficiencies. Inaccurate readings make your HVAC system cool or heat unnecessarily and fail to meet your home's temperature requirements.
The Lifespan of a Thermostat
On average, most thermostats last about 10 years, depending on the model, usage, and proper maintenance. However, many people decide to replace their unit sooner to take advantage of new energy-saving technologies.
A bad thermostat can be detected when your AC or furnace is not turning on, your HVAC systems are not turning off, the thermostat not responding, your HVAC system is short-cycling, the room temperature not matching the temperature displayed on the thermostat, and the programmed setting resetting themselves.
Once you set your thermostat (the main interface between you and your HVAC system), you likely assume it's guiding your heating system to warm your home to the set temperature. It may not be. Thermostats can lose calibration over time from being accidentally bumped or from dirt accumulating.
If you're cold even though your thermostat indicates you shouldn't be, your furnace likely isn't the problem. In most cases, it's working just fine. It's your home that needs attention. Lack of insulation, severe air leakage, and/or unbalanced ductwork are frequently to blame.
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.
For many of us, 70 degrees is the ideal indoor temperature, but when it is close to 100 degrees outside, your AC unit will be working quite hard to meet these expectations. Consider setting your thermostat at 75 degrees to 80 degrees in your home if the outside temperature is approaching triple digits.
Dirty or worn flame sensors, blower motor problems, clogs in the condensate lines, and electrical issues are some of the many problems that can leave your HVAC system failing to deliver the temperatures you've programmed in your thermostat.
Cooling a house from 80 to 72 degrees is a common goal for many, especially during the peak of summer. On average, this process takes roughly two and a half to three and a half hours.
If your thermostat is not reading correctly, it might be due to a dirty or faulty sensor. A quick fix could be to gently clean the sensor with canned air to remove any dust buildup. However, if problems persist, replacing the thermostat could be the next step.
Using a small screwdriver, gently turn the calibration screw or move the adjustment lever until the thermostat's temperature reading matches the thermometer's reading. Make minor adjustments and allow time for the thermostat to adjust to the new setting before rechecking the temperature.
Inconsistent home temperatures and high energy bills are telltale signs your thermostat may need calibration. Thermostat calibration, as well as boiler maintenance, are essential components of HVAC systems. Properly calibrating your thermostat ensures more precise temperature control and energy efficiency.
Quick answer: The ideal house temperature is room temperature, which ranges from 68 to 78 degrees F, though this may vary from season to season. In winter, the average room temperature is generally 62 to 68 degrees, whereas in the summer, the average temperature is 72 to 78 degrees.
Rooms Are Cold Even With Heating On
It could be due to blocked vents, a failing HVAC fan, or issues with the furnace itself. Ensure that furniture or drapes are not blocking your vents. Also, check if your furnace's filter is clean, as a dirty filter can restrict airflow.
Your HVAC system isn't sized properly
Another problem that can cause your house to be hotter than what you've set the thermostat to is if your home's HVAC system isn't sized properly. An HVAC system that's too large for your house will cool your home unevenly.
After taping the thermometer to the wall, wait for 20 to 30 minutes and then check both the thermometer and the thermostat to see what the temperature reading is on each. Ideally, both will show the same temperature, but a small difference between the two is also fine.
There's no one-size-fits-all answer, but generally, calibrating your thermostat once a year is a good rule of thumb. This can be done by a professional as part of your regular HVAC maintenance routine. Whenever you change the batteries in your thermostat, it's also wise to check its calibration.
The Average Life Expectancy of a Thermostat
On average, thermostats tend to last around 10 years with proper maintenance and care.
One of the lesser-known issues is the polar opposite of overheating. Overcooling happens when the engine does not reach the right temperature for its normal function. In this scenario, the thermostat is stuck open and overflows the radiator with coolant, drastically reducing the engine life cycle.