Why is My Thermostat Blank?
For complex systems like heating and cooling units, one minor glitch might have you fearing the worst. When the motherboard of your HVAC system – the thermostat – is MIA, it can cause the temperature in your home to both literally and figuratively rise.
Here’s how to keep your cool if you notice your thermostat is giving you a blank stare.
Check the Batteries
If your thermostat is blank, your air conditioner won’t run because there’s nothing for it to communicate with. Fix your thermostat by first checking the batteries. Swap out the old for a new set and see if that fixes the issue.
Check the Breaker
If it’s not the batteries (or your thermostat does not rely on batteries), it could be that your circuit breaker tripped. If too many devices are drawing power on the same breaker, it will trip. Maybe you’ve noticed this same effect when drying your hair, for example. To see if this is the problem, take a trip to your breaker box and flip the breaker switch back on.
Check the Safety Switch
Your air conditioning system comes equipped with a safety switch that is prompted to shut off before damage occurs. The safety switch is housed in the drain pan, and when issues like excess moisture or too high of temperatures in your system are detected, the safety switch prompts a shut-off to prevent damage. If this sensor has been triggered, give us a call at Mario’s Air Conditioning and Heating.
Check (or Perhaps Chuck?) the Thermostat
When batteries, breakers and safety switches don’t seem to be the problem, it may (though not always) be time for a new thermostat. Generally, thermostats last an average of 10 years before needing replacement. That said, before you decide to get rid of it simply because you don’t think it works, contact a Tampa HVAC professional first to get an expert opinion. There’s often more than one solution to an HVAC problem and an AC technician can advise you of your options.
If you have questions about your thermostat, need help understanding why its blank or are wondering how to reset your thermostat, get in touch with us at 727-843-9598 for help. We service homeowners and businesses throughout the Spring Hill, Holiday and Dunedin areas with all their cooling and heating needs.