Step #1: Make sure thermostat is on the right setting
OK, this is an obvious step, but make sure your thermostat is set on “heat” if it’s winter and “cool” if it’s summer.‘
If your A/C or heater is constantly running, your thermostat may just be set to “ON.” You should set your thermostat to “AUTO” so that your cooling/heating system isn’t constantly running (in “AUTO” mode, the blower will only blow air out of the vents when your system is cooling/heating the air).
Step #2: Turn the thermostat up or down 5 degrees
Try one of these steps (depending on the season):
If it’s summer, set the temperature 5 degrees lower than normal
If it’s winter, set the temperature 5 degrees higher than normal
When you turn the thermostat up or down, you should hear a click. Wait a few minutes to see if your supply registers blow out air or if your return vents suck in air.
Step #3: Replace the batteries (for electronic thermostats)
If you have a digital thermostat, try replacing the batteries to see if that fixes the problem. You should be replacing the batteries in your digital thermostat every year.
Step #4: Clean the thermostat (for mechanical thermostats)
If your thermostat is one with a little lever that moves the temperature, you have a mechanical thermostat. Over time, they can start to malfunction because of dust.
Take off the thermostat cover and dust the inside with a small brush or cloth.
Step #5: Check and test wires and wire connections
You can try removing the thermostat cover and checking the wires to make sure they’re all firmly connected to their respective mounting screw.
If your wires are connected but your thermostat still isn’t working properly, that means it’s time to hire a professional. They’ll open up the thermostat and test the wires individually to see which one is faulty.
