Do you get the feeling that your home’s thermostat is lying to you? Your home might seem boiling, while your thermostat tells you that it’s a cool 74 degrees. So what’s the deal? Today we’re going to talk about some of the most common reasons that your thermostat might be reading the wrong temperature and what you can do to solve the problem!
Possible reasons why your thermostat is reading the wrong temperature
- Dirty components. Dirt buildup is problematic for any of your air conditioner’s components, and your thermostat is no exception. If your thermostat is dirty, it will have a tough time getting an accurate reading of your home’s temperature levels. You can clean your thermostat by removing its cover and gently dusting it with a soft brush.
- Not level. Some thermostats, especially older mercury-based ones, need to be level to read your home’s temperature properly. If your thermostat was not installed properly, or if it was somehow knocked off alignment, you’ll need to adjust it so that it’s in a level position on the wall.
- Poorly located. Perhaps the most common reason why your thermostat might start reading the wrong temperature is that it’s not located properly. A thermostat should be centrally located, about five feet from the floor, away from direct sunlight, and away from any hot or cold drafts. If your thermostat’s placement does not meet one or more of these requirements, it will likely read the wrong temperature for your home.
- Old and/or broken. Just like any appliance in your home, your thermostat can begin to malfunction over time. If you have an old thermostat, consider upgrading to a new, programmable model like the Sensi WiFi thermostat that will be much more convenient and can save you money on your energy bills.
If you have any questions about your thermostat reading the wrong temperature, or if you’d like a cooling system serviced or installed in your home, contact Jerry Kelly Heating & Air Conditioning, your St. Louis air conditioning contractor. We service the St. Louis area, including towns like Town and Country, Weldon Spring, and Wentzville.
photo credit: miller via photopin cc
