Tag: thermostat

Warning Signs of a Broken Thermostat

How to Know When to Replace the Thermostat

The thermostat is a very important element of a home HVAC system. The thermostat controls the temperature and tells the heating and cooling systems when to turn on and off. Without a functional thermostat, the HVAC system can run into various problems. This blog post discusses three warning signs that a thermostat could be broken. 

When troubleshooting HVAC problems, experts recommend that homeowners first try replacing the batteries in the thermostat. Dying thermostat batteries can lead to the thermostat not functioning properly, and switching them out is an easy fix. When changing the batteries does not resolve thermostat problems, it is time to call an HVAC technician for thermostat repair or replacement. Here are the signs of thermostat issues.

Utility Bills Are Too High 

bills Higher energy bills can be a result of a broken or malfunctioning thermostat. Upgrading to a new and more efficient thermostat can help homeowners significantly reduce energy bills. Smart thermostats are very effective at learning the home's climate and adjusting automatically for optimal energy efficiency. 

A broken thermostat can cause a sudden spike in utility bills because the HVAC system is overworking itself. A broken thermostat cannot read temperatures accurately, which causes it to turn the HVAC system on and off constantly, short cycle, and run for way longer cycles than it should. Fixing the thermostat with repairs or replacing it with a new, energy-efficient model can go a long way in cutting back on heating and cooling costs. 

Incorrect Temperature Readings

readingsIncorrect temperature readings are another broken thermostat symptom homeowners should watch out for. When the thermostat cannot read temperatures correctly, it can cause the HVAC system to overwork itself. Homeowners can verify if their thermostat is correct by placing an accurate thermometer on the wall next to it and comparing the readings. 

It may also be obvious that the thermostat is reading the wrong temperature based on the house's temperature. For example, if the homeowner is cold, but the thermostat says it’s 78 degrees, the thermostat is probably wrong. Incorrect temperature readings are one of the most common reasons people replace their old thermostats. 

AC Short Cycling

Short cycling is an HVAC term for when the heating or cooling shuts off prematurely. When the system short cycles, it fails to complete the full heating or cooling cycle. This means that the home’s HVAC system will struggle to reach the optimal temperature because it cuts off too early. This leads to an increase in utility bills. It is also bad for the environment to waste energy on inefficient cooling. 

Homeowners may notice short cycling when the AC constantly cuts on and off. An HVAC system that is working properly will start the cycle and continue to run until it reaches the temperature on the thermostat. It only shuts off when the desired temperature is achieved. When the system short cycles, it stops before the process completes and then starts back up again. 

About Elite Electric, Plumbing & Air 

Elite Electric, Plumbing & Air has over three decades of experience serving the residents of Port St. Lucie, FL, and the surrounding areas. They offer upfront pricing, 24/7 emergency service, and personal attention. Call them today for thermostat replacement and repair in Port St. Lucie, FL.

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Correct thermostat setting saves money

Thermostat Temperature Setting Tips for Any Season in The Year

Finding the Ideal Thermostat Setting Made Easy

One of the biggest issues of contention in many homes with more than one resident is the thermostat settings. Perhaps you like it warmer, but someone else in your house prefers it cooler. But the truth is, having the correct thermostat settings in your home is more important than you might think.

At the very least, the correct settings can help save you money, which is something that most homeowners can agree is a good thing. So, if you’re wondering what the best thermostat settings are for your home each season, follow the below tips from local HVAC technicians.

Autumn and Winter

It’s the time of year when the weather has slipped from humidity and scorching temperatures to cooler air. And so the question remains: what should you set your thermostat to now that summer is over?

The best average temperature for your home during the colder winter months is 70 degrees Fahrenheit. This is a temperature setting that will keep you warm and comfortable in your home, without breaking the bank when your energy bill comes calling.

cold months

You may be tempted to go warmer, especially as the temperature drops, but it’s important to remember that the higher you crank that heat, the more it’s going to cost you. And it takes a hit on the environment, too. So, aim for 70 degrees Fahrenheit and you’ll be warm and comfy this winter.

Spring and Summer

warm monthsBut once winter is on its way out the door and spring days along with the summer are back for some fun in the sun and hot temperatures, what’s the best setting for your thermostat to make sure you fight off the sweltering temps?

Well, the best average temperature for your thermostat for the warmer months is 78 degrees Fahrenheit. This is the temperature that will keep you cool enough to enjoy your home but will keep your HVAC system running smoothly without breaking the bank.

And, of course, running the air conditioner too much is terrible for the environment, so keeping the setting at 78 degrees Fahrenheit makes it so you’re working to help planet Earth breathe a little easier. And that’s something everyone can get behind.

What About An Empty House?

Now, an important consideration to keep in mind when setting your thermostat to the above temperatures is that these are the average temperatures for homes that are mostly empty during the day. If you’re someone who works from home or stays home for other reasons such as childcare, you may need to adjust the thermostat accordingly.

empty house

But it’s important to remember that these temperatures are the right settings for a reason. They’re within range of standard room temperatures, so when you do have to change the settings, these temperatures will help to make sure there’s less strain on your HVAC system. And less strain on your system means a cooling and heating system that will have a longer life.

Elite Electric & Air Can Help with Your HVAC Needs

Elite Electric & Air serves the Port St. Lucie, FL area and is open 24-hours a day and seven days a week, perfect for your regular services as well as emergency situations. Their courteous, expertly trained technicians offer same day service and live answers to your phone calls. Never speak to a machine! They’ve been in business for over 30 years, for service you can trust.

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