A thermostat communicates directly with your HVAC system to ensure your home climate is comfortable and safe. With fall weather in full swing in Ashburn, VA, having a functional thermostat is vital to keep your home warm. Keep reading to know the signs that show you need to install a new smart thermostat today.
Old Thermostat
Like any other system in your house, your thermostat will become outdated and old. Most thermostats have a lifespan of 10 years. You may consider replacing it as soon as new models get to the market, though.
Programmable thermostats let you set schedules for when your system should run, letting you plan around your daily weather. Smart thermostats take it even further, giving you options for programming and letting you check on your thermostat remotely.
Improper Thermostat Reading
When your thermostat records incorrect temperatures, it’s time to install a new one. Use a portable indoor thermometer to test your thermostat reading and verify if it’s correct.
The thermostat sensor can malfunction because of misuse, a manufacturing defect, or old age. The temperature of your thermostat may fluctuate due to malfunction, which is a sign to install a new one.
Thermostat Turning On or Off
The primary function of a thermostat is to communicate with the HVAC system. If the heating or air conditioning stimulates the thermostat, it may experience problems.
Damage to the thermostat’s inner wires compromises your HVAC connection. If the thermostat turns on or off unexpectedly, it’s time to schedule a heating repair or replacement.
High Energy Bills
Like most people, you may be looking for ways to reduce your energy bill. If you end up paying more for your bills, the cause might be your thermostat.
The HVAC system may work overtime when the thermostat records inappropriate temperature readings. If it repeatedly cycles for several hours, it’ll use more energy than expected.
Get ready for winter weather and consider installing a new smart thermostat for the season. If you need heater replacement, repair, or installation services, contact Burns Heating & Air LLC. We offer control and thermostat services for homeowners.
Just like an air conditioner, your heat pump relies on refrigerant to operate. Low refrigerant levels due to a leak aren’t uncommon. Here are a few signs that your heat pump in Leesburg, VA, has a refrigerant leak:
Gurgling Noises
Strange noises from your heat pump are always a reason to call a professional. That’s because they often signify the need for repair. A gurgling noise may happen due to refrigerant bubbling as it leaks out of the system.
Puddles of Liquid
Pools of liquid under and around your heat pump mean something is leaking. Unless there’s another unit nearby that could be the true source of the puddles, like a humidifier, it’s likely a refrigerant leak.
Ice on the System
Your heat pump uses refrigerant to absorb heat in the evaporator coils. If this heat isn’t absorbed and taken in, a slow buildup of frost and icing occurs, slowing down the system.
Poor Heating and Cooling
Refrigerant plays an important role in both the heating and cooling process of your heat pump. Low levels will often mean a poor performance of either task, with the system blowing nothing but lukewarm air. In this situation, the first thing that a service technician will check is the refrigerant level, which is often the culprit.
Rising Energy Bills
The buildup of frost and ice on your heat pump slowly damages parts, causing it to work harder as a way to compensate. This, in turn, uses more energy and causes a steady uptick in heating and cooling bills. It also places more wear and tears on the system, possibly leading to a premature replacement.
Do you suspect that your heat pump is leaking refrigerant? Call the experts at Burns Heating & Air LLC to ask about our heat pump repair services. We look forward to solving your heat pump problems!
