The thermostat measures and maintains the temperature in a room. It sends signals for the air conditioner to keep the interior sufficiently cooled. Since it serves important functions, it’s designed to withstand wear. But, factors like irregular maintenance and old age can still damage it unexpectedly. Learning about its common problems will help people solve them. Here are 3 of them.

Dirt Buildup

Dust and debris buildup inside the thermostat causes it to give incorrect temperature readings and affects its energy efficiency. In some cases, the HVAC unit fails to complete a full cooling cycle because of this. To solve this, follow these steps:

  1. Remove the plastic casing.
  2. Use a soft-bristled brush to get rid of dirt.
  3. Clean the contacts by slipping in a thin sheet of paper and moving it back and forth.

Those who try this should refrain from touching the inner components to avoid further damage. If the thermostat hasn’t been cleaned in a long time, asking for help from a professional is recommended as they can remove stubborn grime. They can also recalibrate the device for a more accurate temperature reading.

Bad Location

A thermostat in a bad location sends inaccurate signals to the air conditioner. These impractical areas include walls that are exposed to direct sunlight and near appliances, electronic devices, and other heat sources. Since they’re warm, the device indicates that the temperature is too high. The HVAC unit then responds by making the room extremely cold. This can also lead to expensive utility bills.

Fortunately, the solution is obvious and easy; just change the thermostat’s location. The ideal place is a wall toward the center of the room. Make sure it’s not near heat sources and is unobstructed by furniture or decorations.

Faulty Anticipator


The heat anticipator in mechanical thermostats prevents the cycles from turning on and off erratically. If it’s malfunctioning, the room can get too hot or cold. Here are steps to adjust it:

  1. Remove the cover.
  2. Inspect the anticipator. If unsure what it looks like, search for the tiny metal dial.
  3. Gently push it to the left or right.

Since the thermostat affects the cooling unit’s efficiency, its problems should be solved promptly. Individuals who need help in troubleshooting it can contact a company that offers AC repair in Pittsburgh PA. Trusted contractors are skilled in fixing, cleaning, and replacing components and suggesting an ideal location for the device.