Your thermostat plays a critical role in maintaining the comfort and energy efficiency of your home throughout the year, but like any technology, it doesn’t last forever. If your current model is outdated, inconsistent, or lacking the modern features you want or need, it may be time to upgrade your thermostat.
Today’s advanced thermostats offer far more than just temperature control. But how do you know when it’s the right time to make the switch? And with so many options on the market, how do you choose the right one for your needs? Before you invest in a new device, it’s important to weigh your options carefully.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through six key factors to consider before you upgrade your thermostat to ensure you’re making the best choice for your home.
1. The Age of Your Thermostat
Your thermostat has an anticipated lifespan of about 10 years. While a 10-year-old thermostat will still run your system, it may not be as efficient as more modern, smart thermostat devices. You may find that as it approaches this mark, it begins to malfunction more frequently, the batteries die more easily, or it isn’t as reliable as it once was.
If you’re tired of dealing with an older device that can’t quite keep up with your home’s needs, it may be the perfect time to upgrade your thermostat. An upgraded device will help you avoid malfunctions, keep your home more comfortable, and boost your property’s energy efficiency, helping to lower your monthly energy bills.
2. Your Energy Efficiency Needs
As mentioned above, your thermostat plays a major role in your home’s energy efficiency. Unlike some more modern devices, your existing thermostat may not be programmable from your phone or tablet. This means it is your responsibility to raise or lower temperatures before leaving your home or while you’re at work.
When you upgrade your thermostat to a newer device, you can teach it your schedule, allowing it to adjust temperatures and help you maintain a more energy-efficient space. Additionally, these devices often come with an app that allows you to set the temperature of your home, even when you’re not there, leading to lower monthly bills.
3. Inconsistent Heating or Cooling
Your thermostat’s job is to ensure your home reaches and maintains your chosen temperature. When it is functioning properly, you shouldn’t deal with inconsistent temperatures in different rooms throughout your home. If you are noticing cold or warm spots throughout your home, this might indicate a problem with your thermostat.
Whether in an improper location, wiring problems, or a malfunctioning sensor, choosing to upgrade your thermostat can address them all. With an upgraded smart thermostat, you can trust that these warm or cold spots will be a thing of the past, and you’ll be more comfortable in every room across your property.
4. A Constantly Running HVAC System
If your home is too warm or cool and you’re trying to adjust the temperature, you may switch on your heater or air conditioner. Once it’s turned on, your HVAC system should be able to quickly adjust the temperature of your home, helping you feel more comfortable in your space. However, if your HVAC system isn’t ever shutting off, this may be a sign of a problem.
Your existing thermostat may be struggling to read the temperature of the home, or there may be wiring problems within the device. If this is the case, it may be best to upgrade your thermostat. Replacing the device can help you address any problems within it, ensuring the system turns off when your home reaches your desired temperature.
5. An Unresponsive Device
If your thermostat has become unresponsive, it may be time to consider an upgrade. A lack of response, whether it’s delayed input recognition, frozen screens, or failure to turn your HVAC system on or off, can signal that your device is outdated or malfunctioning. Older thermostats may struggle to keep up with modern heating and cooling systems or suffer from worn-out wiring and failing components.
Upgrading to a newer model, especially a smart thermostat, can restore reliability and offer better control, energy efficiency, and advanced features like remote access and learning capabilities. If basic troubleshooting doesn’t resolve the issue, investing in a new thermostat can improve your home’s comfort, prevent future disruptions, and even lower your energy bills over time.
6. Inaccurate Temperature Readings
It isn’t uncommon for your thermostat to read the temperature a degree or two differently than another thermometer in your home. However, if your thermostat is struggling to accurately read the temperature in your home or there is an extreme variation in readings, this is a clear sign of a sensor problem within the system.
When your thermostat is having a difficult time reading your home’s temperature, this may mean your HVAC system won’t turn on or won’t turn off. Either way, this can lead to major discomfort in your home and is an indication that it is the perfect time for you to turn to a trusted HVAC professional to upgrade your thermostat.
Let R&D Heating & Air Upgrade Your Thermostat
If your older device is struggling to keep up with your needs, it may be time to consider talking to a trusted HVAC professional. When you’re ready to upgrade your thermostat in your Roy, Utah, home, turn to our team at R&D Heating & Air for support. With decades of experience, we’re confident that we can find the perfect thermostat for your property.
If you’re ready to upgrade your thermostat or have questions about our other services, don’t hesitate to contact us today for support.
