Help! My Thermostat Screen Is Blank in Chester, VA

The thermostat in your Chester, VA, home is the nerve center of your HVAC system. So, it’s natural to panic when you try to change the temperature and find a blank screen on your thermostat. Here are some of the reasons that thermostat screens blank out and what to do about them.

Dead Batteries

If you have a conventional programmable thermostat, it likely runs on battery power. If those batteries die, your thermostat will turn off. Typically, thermostats give you a visual low battery warning long before that happens.

You should consult your thermostat’s operating manual for instructions on changing its batteries. Most thermostats use commonly available batteries like AA, AAA, 9-volt or 3V button cells.

Damaged Wiring

If your thermostat draws power from your HVAC system, damage to its wiring can cause a blank screen. It’s a very uncommon problem, as your thermostat’s wiring runs inside your home’s walls. However, pest infestations and short circuits can damage those wires in certain circumstances.

You can’t repair damaged thermostat wires yourself. You need the assistance of professional HVAC technicians to solve the problem. They’ll understand the wiring layout of your HVAC system and can replace the problematic wire without doing further damage.

An Open Air Handler Panel

Some HVAC systems will turn off connected thermostats if they detect an open-air handler panel. The idea is to let you know that your HVAC system isn’t in an operable state. If your thermostat goes blank for this reason, securing the air handler panel should solve the problem.

It’s worth pointing out that certain kinds of HVAC system malfunctions can also cause a blank thermostat screen. Or, your thermostat itself may be malfunctioning. In either case, if you need help, call Foster Plumbing & Heating to schedule an HVAC repair appointment in Chester, VA!

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