How To Reset a Thermostat: 4 Steps
Is your HVAC system struggling to reach your desired temperature? Don’t be quick to Google furnace tune-up services in Denver just yet — try resetting the thermostat first. Oftentimes, that’s all your system needs to get back up and running again. Here’s how to reset a thermostat in four simple steps:
1. Know the Signs a Thermostat Reset Is in Order
You should reset your thermostat whenever:
- The thermostat seems to have trouble connecting to the HVAC system.
- The thermostat has programming issues.
- The HVAC system struggles to reach or maintain your desired temperature.
- The thermostat is showing incorrect readings.
- You’re moving and will be using the thermostat in your new home or will be leaving it behind but want to delete your information.
Even if you’re not experiencing any of these issues, you should do a thermostat reset every once in a while to keep it working smoothly and avoid future problems.
2. Learn the Difference Between a Reset and a Restart
A thermostat reset wipes out your settings and saved data and returns the device to its default settings. If you reset your thermostat, you’ll need to set it up all over again. By contrast, a restart is similar to rebooting a computer and keeps all your settings. This can help if your thermostat is stuck and doesn’t respond.
3. Consult the Manufacturer’s Instructions
Reset protocols can vary depending on your thermostat model, so it’s always best to refer to your manual. If you don’t have the manual, you can typically find it online by looking up the brand name and model number.
4. Check the Thermostat Type
It’s essential to know what type of thermostat you have before resetting it. Here is how to reset a thermostat from each type:
Battery-Operated Programmable Thermostats
- Switch off your programmable thermostat.
- Open the battery door. If it’s at the back, you’ll need to remove the device from the wall.
- Remove the batteries.
- Place the batteries backward, so the negative end connects with the positive terminal. Keep them like that for five seconds.
- Remove and install the batteries the normal way.
- If the display turns on, the reset has been successful.
Mechanical Thermostats
- Switch off your thermostat.
- Find the breaker box and turn off the thermostat’s power source.
- Wait for 30 seconds and turn the circuit breaker back on.
- Turn on the thermostat.
Low-Voltage Electronic Thermostats
- Remove the thermostat cover.
- Clean the coil inside with a soft brush.
- Set the thermostat to the lowest cooling level.
- Clean the coil again.
- Set the thermostat to the highest heating level.
- Clean the coil again.
- Reset the thermostat based on your desired temperature.
Non-Programmable Digital Thermostats
- Remove the face of the unit.
- Press the reset button or remove the batteries for five seconds.
- The thermostat will reset immediately.
Is Resetting Your Thermostat Not Helping? Call Us.
If you know how to reset a thermostat, but it’s not helping, you may be dealing with a more serious issue. Our HVAC experts at 888 Heating and Air Conditioning can help. Call (303) 770-2776 or contact us online to learn about our furnace repair services in Denver, CO.
