Thermostats are vital to HVAC systems. Where old thermostats used Mercury and dials to control the temperature, modern thermostats are digital and allow homeowners to control the temperatures in their homes by simply pressing a button. It also signals to the system when to switch from heating and cooling based on the owner’s preferences. Most thermostats have a digital display face that allows you to see the current temperature and the temperature to which you have the system set. However, many of these devices run on batteries and if you do not know how to change them when they get low, you could lose control over your system. If you are interested in learning the importance of changing the batteries in your thermostat, read on:
Know What Kind of Batteries Your Thermostat Uses
Research what kind of batteries your system uses, and purchase a few extras to keep on hand. An internet search should be able to yield the answers you need. You can also check the manufacturer’s manual for this information. However, if you are unable to find out which batteries you need or are unsure how to take the cover off to find out, you can ask your HVAC specialist to help you on your next tune up. The technician can show you how to check which batteries are in your unit and where to buy them. They may even have some handy.
Know How Often to Replace Them
It can also be helpful to know how often you might need to replace the batteries. Thermostats usually have a low battery indicator that will give you advanced notice before your system will shut off. This warning typically provides one to two months notice before the battery goes fully dead. As a general rule of thumb and to prevent the heating/cooling system from shutting off, you should replace the batteries at least once a year. If you are uncomfortable doing this yourself, a service technician can assist you.
Know the Risks
While you are in no serious danger if the batteries in your thermostat die, you are in danger of discomfort. The thermostat will not operate if the batteries die, meaning that you will lose control over your heating and cooling systems. Some systems are designed to shut off entirely if the connection to the thermostat is lost. Therefore, you could be left to deal with the heat or cold because your system will not kick back on until the thermostat’s battery is replaced. This can be especially risky in areas where it gets extremely hot or cold.
Changing the battery in your thermostat may seem like a simple task, but it is vital for the correct operation of your HVAC system. Remember to check the battery life, keep a supply of the correct batteries on hand and change it once a year. This will ensure that everything runs as it should, and you and your system continues to run smoothly. If your thermostat does not work even after you have changed the batteries, you may need to hire an HVAC technician to inspect your system for error. This way, you and your family are never left without the comfort of air conditioning and heating.
For more heating and cooling advice or to schedule a free energy consultation, please contact us today.