Quick Answer — How Do You Calibrate a Thermostat?
- Find an accurate thermometer and place it near your thermostat
- Wait 15-30 minutes for the temperature reading to stabilize
- Compare the thermostat and thermometer
- A difference of more than a degree or two means it’s time to calibrate
- Adjust settings (depending on your model, this might be a screw, an offset, or a digital display)
- Recheck until both readings are identical
Why Thermostat Calibration Matters
A properly calibrated thermostat keeps the temperature inside your home accurate and consistent. It also means your HVAC won’t short-cycle as often, which in turn means there’s less wasted energy, reducing your heating/cooling costs. Even better, it extends your HVAC system’s lifespan, saving you even more money.
When Does Your Thermostat Need Calibration?
There are a few red flags that indicate your thermostat needs to be calibrated. The most common are:
Temperature Doesn’t Match the Room
If the reading says 75 degrees and it feels like 60, it’s time to calibrate.
HVAC Runs Too Long or Short-Cycles
Incorrect readings can cause the HVAC to start or stop incorrectly.
Hot and Cold Spots Around the House
Hot or cold spots usually mean the air isn’t circulating as it should and it’s time to calibrate.
Sudden Increase in Energy Bills
If your bill spikes, the machine is probably working too hard and needs a calibration.
Thermostat Accuracy Declines With Age
As all machines get older, they tend not to work as well as they once did.
What You Need Before Calibrating Your Thermostat
- Reliable thermometer
- Small screwdriver (for mechanical models)
- Smartphone app (for smart models)
- Your HVAC system’s user’s manual
Step-by-Step Guide to Calibrate Your Thermostat
Step 1 — Prepare for Calibration
The first thing you’ll want to do is to place a reliable thermometer next to the thermostat, away from drafty areas, direct sunlight, and anything else that might affect the reading.
Step 2 — Compare the Readings
After 15-30 minutes, check both temperature readings. If the difference is more than a degree or two, your thermostat needs to be calibrated.
Step 3 — Adjust the Thermostat
If it’s a mechanical thermostat, there will be a calibration screw that you’ll have to adjust. Digital models have an “offset” option in the settings menu, which you can adjust up or down. For smart thermostats, you can use the app or the built-in software adjustment on the model itself.
Step 4 — Recheck and Fine-Tune
After you’ve made the adjustments, wait 15-30 minutes and check the readings again. If they match, you’ve successfully recalibrated your thermostat. If they’re still off, repeat step three.
DIY vs. Professional Calibration
For simple repairs and calibrations like those listed above, DIY repairs are completely fine. However, there are a few signs that usually mean you’ll need to call in the professionals.
If you’re recalibrating constantly, if there appears to be damage to the HVAC system’s wiring, or you’ve tried to recalibrate several times and you still can’t get an accurate result, it’s likely a sign of a deeper issue, and you’ll want to call a technician.
Tips for Keeping Your Thermostat Accurate
Here are a few tips for keeping your home thermostat accurate:
- Recalibrate once a year or during seasonal HVAC transitions (i.e., when heating season changes to cooling season and vice-versa)
- Theremostats should be cleaned regularly to avoid dust buildup, which can interfere with their normal operations
- The thermostat should be placed away from vents, drafts, and direct sunlight, as these can make it harder to read the room’s temperature correctly
- For smart models, you’ll want to replace batteries, keep the device’s firmware up to date, and update your phone app regularly
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How often should I calibrate my thermostat?
Your thermostat should be recalibrated at least once a year, although it’s also a good idea to do it during seasonal transitions.
Can I calibrate a smart thermostat myself?
Normally, yes. There’ll be a calibration option on your smartphone app or on the device itself. If you can’t find one or the self-calibration isn’t working, you may need a professional.
Does calibration really save money?
Yes, by reducing the amount of wasted energy, lowering your monthly bill, and increasing the lifespan of your HVAC unit, calibration absolutely saves money.
What if calibration doesn’t fix the problem?
If calibration doesn’t fix the problem, the unit likely has other issues. You’ll want to call the professionals.
Should I replace my thermostat instead of recalibrating?
It depends on the age of your thermostat. If it’s around 10 years old, a newer, longer-lasting model is your best bet. If it’s more recent, a calibration should fix all of your problems.
Keep Your Thermostat Accurate for Comfort and Savings
Testing and calibrating your thermostat regularly will ensure that your home is at the correct temperature at all times, which saves money. It also increases the device’s lifespan and lowers your monthly bill.
If the calibration tips listed above aren’t working for your HVAC unit in Pensacola, Florida, or the surrounding areas, it’s time to call One Hour Plumbing and Heating. Our expert technicians will identify and repair any problems.
Don’t wait around for one of the other HVAC companies to get there “when they get around to it.” At One Hour Plumbing and Heating, we’re always on time or you don’t pay a dime!