How long do thermostats last?

Author: Amir Bartell II  |  Last update: Monday, January 19, 2026

Most household thermostats will last about ten years. As they get older, they start to malfunction and become unreliable. If your thermostat is more than a decade old and is not working as well as it once did, it may be time to pick a new model.

How do I know if my thermostat needs to be replaced?

Signs You Need a New Thermostat
  1. Heating or cooling system will not turn off or on.
  2. The temperature reading is incorrect.
  3. Recent spike in your energy bill.
  4. Frequent temperature fluctuations.
  5. Thermostat is 10 years old or older.

How can you tell when your thermostat is going out?

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.

Do I need an electrician to replace a 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.

How do you know when it's time for a new thermostat?

There are a few telltale signs that it is time to replace your old thermostat:
  • Your HVAC system keeps cycling on and off irregularly.
  • Registering wrong temperatures.
  • High energy bills.
  • Inconsistent temperatures through the house.
  • The thermostat won't turn on or a blank screen (and it isn't the batteries)

How long should a thermostat last?

How common is it for a thermostat to go bad?

Most household thermostats will last about ten years. As they get older, they start to malfunction and become unreliable. If your thermostat is more than a decade old and is not working as well as it once did, it may be time to pick a new model.

How much does a new thermostat cost?

Replacing a Thermostat. You'll pay between $15 and $300 for the unit in addition to labor ($65 to $100 per hour) to replace an old thermostat with a new one.

How much does an electrician charge to replace a thermostat?

The cost of thermostat installation can vary depending on several factors, including the type of thermostat, the complexity of the installation, and your location. On average, homeowners can expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $200 for professional installation by an electrician.

Can I replace my thermostat myself?

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.

Do I need to turn off electricity to change thermostat?

To replace a thermostat, first shut off the power at the service panel. Remove the cover and plate, and then label the wires with pieces of masking tape identifying their terminals.

How do I test my thermostat?

Methods for Testing Your Thermostat
  1. Just Turn it On and Let it Work. One way to test your thermostat is to simply turn it on and see if it cools the room down. ...
  2. Get an Indoor Thermometer. Another way to test your thermostat is to use a thermometer. ...
  3. Use a Multimeter. ...
  4. What to Do if You Notice an Issue.

Can a thermostat go bad without overheating?

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.

What causes thermostat to burn out?

This can happen if there is a power surge or if the thermostat is connected to a faulty electrical circuit.

What are the symptoms of a bad thermostat?

Watch for These 9 Signs of a Thermostat Going Bad
  • The screen is dead. ...
  • The actual temperature doesn't match the display. ...
  • Your AC or heater is stuck on. ...
  • Your heating and cooling won't turn on. ...
  • Your HVAC is short cycling. ...
  • Scheduled settings stop working. ...
  • Nothing happens when you adjust the settings. ...
  • Temperatures shift.

How many hours does it take to replace a thermostat?

Installation typically takes about 1 hour.

What is the lifespan of a Honeywell thermostat?

The average lifespan of a Honeywell thermostat is typically around 10-20 years, depending on various factors such as usage, maintenance, and environmental conditions. With proper care and regular servicing, a Honeywell thermostat can last even longer.

Can I just buy a new thermostat?

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.

How expensive is it to move a thermostat?

Moving a Thermostat: If the required wiring exists at the desired location, moving a thermostat may cost as little as $65. However, moving the unit can entail installing new wiring and cutting and patching drywall, so the project can cost up to $450.

Do I need an electrician to move a thermostat?

If you're moving your thermostat to a different room, however, you'll likely need the aid of a professional HVAC technician. They'll have to run a new set of control wires from your HVAC system to where you'd like your thermostat to be situated.

Who should I call to replace a thermostat?

Yes, electricians are fully qualified to install thermostats. Electricians have the skill and knowledge to handle the electrical aspects of thermostat installation, ensuring that the device is properly connected to both your home's electrical system and HVAC equipment.

Can a new thermostat lower your electric bill?

Smart Thermostats Create Efficiencies

As an alternative to consistently closing the temperature gap in hot or cold times, you may consider investing in a smart thermostat. It will automatically raise or lower the temperature during unoccupied hours, thus reducing energy consumption and your bill.

How much should I pay for a thermostat replacement?

The average thermostat replacement cost runs $182, ranging between $113 and $264. Installation may cost more due to wiring and placement considerations, with labor around $65 to $100 per hour. Thermostat prices vary from $15 to $300 based on type and features.

How do you know if you need a new thermostat?

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.

Is Honeywell a good thermostat?

Overall, the thermostat is seen as a reliable and efficient upgrade for managing home climate. Buy this thermostat! Excellent thermostat!

Can a handyman replace a thermostat?

While replacing a thermostat may appear straightforward, it involves electrical work and compatibility considerations for equipment that you should consider. Hiring a professional electrician or HVAC technician is the safest and most reliable option, ensuring correct thermostat replacement.

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