Having a dead or dying thermostat battery can be a frustrating situation, causing your HVAC system to function intermittently or even become unresponsive. Worse still, modern “smart” thermostats often require battery replacement much more often than their analog ancestors. Luckily, the vast majority of thermostat batteries are simple to replace and an excellent job for the intrepid DIY fan.
Determine the Model of Your Thermostat
Thermostats come in all shapes and sizes, and there are more being created each day. Thus, it is impossible to know which style of battery each one uses. The quickest way to determine the requirements for your thermostat is to research the specific model. Typically, the front of your thermostat will list the manufacturer and the model of your unit. A quick search on your favorite search engine will help determine the specific battery type and procedure to replace the battery.
Order the Battery
It is very common for thermostat batteries to be a non-standard size. Whether they use doorbell batteries or watch batteries, a thermostat will likely require something a bit more exotic than the AA’s you have in the kitchen junk drawer. Therefore, it is best to plan ahead when you suspect your thermostat battery might be dying. Many homeowners choose to order their batteries online. But, if you need one quicker, the local home improvement store should carry the model you need. Simply ask for the “specialty” battery section if you are having trouble finding it.
Check the Functions
Normally, you can simply pull the thermostat off the wall to replace the battery. They are typically held on using clips or pins. However, some models may require removing one or two screws. Make sure you know how to properly take it apart to avoid damage. Once you have replaced the battery and reassembled the unit, take the time to test the functions of the thermostat. Many models require a resetting or recalibration procedure, so you want to make sure your thermostat is ready to go. Now that your battery is up and running you may want to learn more about the different modes and settings for better efficiency.
At Evans Mechanical, our customers are the first priority of our fully certified and skilled technicians. We are here to attend to all of your heating and cooling needs and can also provide indoor air quality testing and water heater services. If you have any questions or suspect you might need a professional service technician, don’t hesitate to give Evans Mechanical of Eureka, CA, a call today!
