How Do I Know If My Thermostat Is Causing HVAC Issues?

Is your home too hot, too cold, or just not feeling right? Few things are more frustrating than dealing with a heating or cooling system that isn’t working as it should, especially when you have no idea what’s causing the problem. Is it the thermostat? The furnace? The AC? Or something else entirely? After helping homeowners tackle these same headaches for over 50 years, our team at Van Drunen Heating & Air Conditioning understands how overwhelming and confusing it can be to figure out what’s wrong. That’s why we’re here to make it easier. We’ve outlined the top warning signs that your thermostat might be the culprit, so you can stop guessing and start finding real solutions. Let’s get to the bottom of it!

The Screen Goes Blank

A blank thermostat display is often the first sign homeowners notice. Before you panic, check the simple fixes first. Your thermostat might just need fresh batteries, or you may have a tripped circuit breaker.

Look for loose or damaged wiring around the unit. If you spot any obvious problems, don’t attempt repairs yourself—call a professional. Sometimes a simple reset can restore function, but if these basic steps don’t work, your thermostat may need replacement.

Your HVAC System Won’t Turn On

When your heating or cooling system refuses to start, the thermostat could be the culprit. Faulty internal wiring or damaged circuitry can prevent communication between your thermostat and HVAC equipment.

This type of malfunction requires professional diagnosis. The problem might be within the thermostat itself, or it could indicate issues with your HVAC system’s electrical connections.

The System Runs Continuously

A thermostat that can’t signal your HVAC system to shut off will cause it to run nonstop. This leads to sky-high energy bills and unnecessary wear on your equipment.

Try turning your thermostat completely off. If your system continues running, you’re dealing with either faulty thermostat wiring or a calibration problem that needs professional attention.

Short Cycling Problems

Short cycling occurs when your HVAC system turns on and off repeatedly without reaching your desired temperature. While several issues can cause this problem, a malfunctioning thermostat is often to blame.

Start by checking your air filter—a dirty filter can cause short cycling, too. If replacing the filter doesn’t solve the problem, your thermostat likely needs professional service or replacement.

Inconsistent Temperature Control

Notice hot and cold spots throughout your home? Your thermostat might be struggling to maintain consistent temperatures. This can happen when the thermostat’s sensors malfunction or when it’s installed in a poor location.

Temperature inconsistencies can also indicate other HVAC problems, so professional diagnosis is essential to determine the root cause.

Incorrect Temperature Readings

Your thermostat should display the actual temperature in your home. If the reading seems off by several degrees, you might have a calibration issue or sensor problem.

Sometimes this happens when thermostats are installed in locations that don’t represent the overall home temperature, like near heat sources or in direct sunlight.

Lost Programming Settings

Programmable and smart thermostats that forget their settings or randomly change temperatures may need recalibration or software updates. While this doesn’t always mean your thermostat is completely broken, it can signal the beginning of more serious problems.

Older thermostats showing these symptoms often need replacement to maintain reliable operation.

Let Van Drunen Heating & Air Conditioning Investigate

Ultimately, several signs could indicate your thermostat is to blame for issues with your HVAC system. While you can do some basic troubleshooting on your own, the most effective way to diagnose and resolve the problem is to have a trusted HVAC professional assess the situation. 

Van Drunen Heating & Air Conditioning is here to help. Our experienced team will promptly investigate your system, identify the root cause, and provide expert solutions to get your home comfortable again. Don’t hesitate—contact us today for an expert diagnosis and professional service you can trust.