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.
If a car thermostat is stuck open, symptoms may include the engine taking longer to warm up, the temperature gauge reading lower than usual, poor fuel economy, and the engine running cold. In some cases, the heater may not produce warm air.
So, can a bad thermostat cause your AC not to cool? Absolutely. While it may seem like a small part of your HVAC system, the thermostat plays a crucial role in ensuring your home stays cool and comfortable.
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.
The average cost of a new thermostat, including installation, ranges in price from $50 to $500 or more based on several factors including the type of thermostat, labor costs, the complexity of the installation, and more.
In most cases, installing a new thermostat is a relatively simple do-it-yourself project that can result in improved comfort and convenience and one that can help you save energy.
Pay attention to how often your heating system cycles on and off. Frequent cycling could be a sign of thermostat problems as it struggles to maintain the desired temperature. If the system stays on for extended periods without adequately warming the house then the furnace might be working inefficiently.
So, can a thermostat go bad and cause problems for your HVAC system? The answer is yes, especially if your thermostat doesn't signal your HVAC system to turn off. Once your home has reached the desired temperature, your thermostat normally signals the HVAC to turn it off.
If your thermostat has fresh batteries but suddenly lacks power, flashes, or isn't responsive to adjustments, it may need replacement. If resetting the thermostat doesn't resolve the problem, you may have wiring problems or faulty components causing your thermostat to not turn on.
While there is a small chance that there is an issue with the running temperature of your engine, by far the most common issue with trouble code P0128 is a faulty thermostat. The exact location of the thermostat and issues related to a damaged thermostat may vary depending on your vehicle.
One of the most obvious signs you need to replace your thermostat is when it doesn't do anything. If your thermostat display doesn't light up or respond when you press buttons or try to change the settings, you may have to replace it. Before assuming you have a broken thermostat, make sure it has fresh batteries.
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.
You can typically just replace the outdated thermostat with a new thermostat – assuming the latter is compatible with your HVAC system. There are a few things you should know, however, when upgrading your thermostat.
Yes, many smart thermostats are designed for DIY installation, and manufacturers typically provide step-by-step guides and videos. However, if your HVAC system is older or lacks proper wiring (like a C-wire), the installation might become more complex, and you may need professional help.
It's not always necessary to drain the coolant to change the thermostat. If the old thermostat is positioned at the bottom of the radiator, you have no choice because all the coolant will drain by itself. If you drive with a bad thermostat, your car could overheat, causing severe and expensive engine damage.
Engine Overheating
The most obvious sign that your radiator is damaged is if your car overheats frequently. If the temperature gauge in your vehicle is rising higher than usual or if the engine warning light comes on, these are both indications that your radiator needs to be checked out.