So I just had my AC fixed (it went out this week) and apparently the problem was a clog in some pipes somewhere that was blocking the flow of cool air. Anyways, its amazing to have AC again, but I've noticed a slight problem.

Let's say I set my thermostat to 70. The actual temperature that shows below (this isnt a digital thermostat sadly) appears to be about 5 degrees warmer that what was set. To be as descriptive as possible, the slider bar thing on that was set to show as 70 while the bar directly below that shows 5 degrees warmer.

Anyone have experience with this kind of issue. I can think of a number of potential problems that might be causing this, but basically if it really isnt an issue I'll leave it be. With my warrenty its $60 to have someone come out to look at it.

Thoughts?

5/29/2009 9:31:41 AM

Find the manual, either the paper one that came with it or get the model and find it online. There should be a section about calibrating it. Here is an example from a Honeywell manual:

Quote :

"Recalibration These thermostats are calibrated at the factory and should not need recalibration. If the thermostat seems out of adjustment, first check for accurate leveling. To check calibration: 1. Move the temperature setting lever to the lower end of the temperature scale. Place the System switch to the Off position. Wait at least five minutes. 2. Remove the thermostat cover. Move the setting lever until the switch just makes contact. (The mercury in the switch rolls to the left end of the tube.) 3. Replace the cover and wait five minutes for the cover and the thermostat to lose the heat it has gained from your hands. If the thermometer pointer and the setting lever indicator read approximately the same, no recalibration is needed."

Then it gives you the steps to recalibrate.

http://www.honeywell-thermostat.com/manuals/t8034nmanual.pdf

5/29/2009 9:54:14 AM

Here's the thing with thermostats: Ignore the numbers on them and, once you're set them, leave them alone. Set it to a temperature where you're comfortable. So long as your AC/Heat isn't running all the time, you'll be fine.

Obviously, if your AC/Heat is running all the time, you've set it to a temperature that the unit doesn't have the ability to obtain (either due to maximum cooling capacity or malfunction) or your thermostat is broken. You can't cool your house to 50 when it's 95 outside.

5/29/2009 11:31:04 AM

Cover a 12 pack and shipping and I'll send you a digital thermostat. (I went programmable after moving into my house)

5/30/2009 9:44:36 PM

get a pocket level and set it on top of the thermostat. a thermostat that's not level will exhibit the symptoms you describe. if you find it's not level, just pop off the cover to reveal the 2 screws. loosen them and adjust until it sits level and retighten screws. simple.

5/31/2009 1:24:57 PM