An air conditioner provides cool air. A furnace or heat pump keeps you warm and cozy. But it’s the thermostat that’s responsible for ensuring your comfort. Your home will quickly become unpleasant if it’s not working. One of the most common reasons for this is the unit isn’t receiving power. Below, we’ll explain what to do if there’s no power coming to your thermostat (many of these issues are easy to fix).
If someone accidentally turned the thermostat off, your HVAC system won’t receive any signals to run. It’s not infeasible to brush against something and push a switch. If your thermostat has a touchscreen, it’s even easier to make a mistake. Take steps to turn the unit on and see if it lights up and your heating or cooling system kicks in.
If you have a battery-operated thermostat and haven’t changed the batteries in a while, there’s no immediate cause for panic if it stops working. The controls and the display won’t have power if the battery is drained. Changing the batteries is simple. Remove the cover and refer to the user manual and symbols in the battery casing to properly insert the batteries.
Another simple reason no power is coming to the thermostat is it’s dirty. Dirt, dust, and virtually any other buildup can prevent it from working. Wipe down the outside of the unit regularly. To clean the inside, remove the outer cover and either wipe down the interior with a rag or use a can of compressed air. Reinstall the cover and see if the thermostat has power.
You’ll have to look further if the problem still isn’t resolved. There should be something on the display, even if the thermostat is off. If the screen is blank, then the device isn’t receiving power. In this case, you’ll want to check for the following:
You can determine if the wiring is defective by turning the fan from the “Auto” setting to the “On” setting. The blower should start, which means your thermostat is getting power. Or, if the AC is on, turn the temperature down; if the furnace is on, turn the temperature up. The level must be higher/lower than the current room temperature. If the thermostat is receiving power, your HVAC system should start up.
There are also more complex tests that involve checking the wire connections, disconnecting them, or using a multimeter. Unless you’re familiar with wiring in general, it’s best to consult a professional.
At NexGen, we can help select and install some of the most advanced thermostats on the market. Our team can troubleshoot and repair them as well. If your thermostat isn’t getting power, follow our suggestions above and contact us if you can’t get it working. We provide professional HVAC services throughout Southern California. To request assistance, call us at 833-729-9735.
