Is My Thermostat Malfunctioning? Signs it's your thermostat, not your HVAC system.

When you’re having an issue with the temperature in your home, it's sometimes difficult to know whether your HVAC system is not working or whether there's just an issue with your thermostat. Before you call a professional to come look at your system, it's important to identify the signs that indicate whether your thermostat is malfunctioning. In this blog post, we'll discuss the common signs that it's your thermostat, not your HVAC system, that's causing the problem.


Woman adjusting wall thermostat

1. Inconsistent temperature


Are you experiencing inconsistent temperatures inside your home? If you're setting the thermostat at a certain temperature, but the temperature in the room does not match up, it's a clear indication that your thermostat is not working. If you're constantly adjusting the temperature on your thermostat and the temperature is still not consistent, you likely need to replace your thermostat.


2. System turning on and off


If your system is turning on and off frequently, it could also be a sign that there's an issue with your thermostat. When your thermostat sends a signal to the HVAC system, it can cause your system to turn off and on. This can be caused by a short in the wiring or an aging thermostat. It's important to have a professional inspect your system to determine the root cause of the issue. Bear AC & Heating can handle all of your questions, so give us a call!


3. No response from your system


If your thermostat is not communicating with your HVAC system, you'll notice that your system won't respond to any changes made on the thermostat. This could be due to a power outage, loose wiring, or the batteries in the thermostat needing to be replaced. If you don't see any change in your HVAC system after adjusting the thermostat, it's likely time to call in a professional to take a closer look.


4. Unresponsive thermostat


If your thermostat is unresponsive, it's an indication of a malfunction. Sometimes, the problem could be as simple as replacing the batteries. If replacing the batteries doesn't solve the issue, you may need to replace the thermostat altogether. When a thermostat is unresponsive, it can cause the HVAC system to stop working altogether, which can be a disruptive and expensive problem.


5. Erratic behavior


If your thermostat is behaving erratically, it could be a sign that the thermostat is malfunctioning. Be aware of any unusual behavior such as resetting on its own, fluctuating wildly, or just not responding to adjustments. This is a clear sign that you should consult with a professional to see if it's time to replace the thermostat.



When dealing with temperature fluctuation in the home. It's difficult to know when there's an issue with your HVAC system or your thermostat. By following the signs we've discussed above, you'll be able to properly determine if your thermostat is the issue. At the first sign of an issue, it's important to call in a professional to diagnose the issue. Our team at Bear AC & Heating can help you with all of your HVAC needs. Don't hesitate to contact us today if you're noticing any issues with your thermostat or HVAC system.