Your air conditioner's thermostat is the control unit for your AC system. It is responsible for turning on and off your AC unit so that it can maintain the set temperatures. Thermostats are designed to last a long time; however, their lifespan can be shortened by frequent use or mishandling. If you have an old faulty thermostat, you should probably replace it with a new programmable thermostat. Whether new or old, your AC is vulnerable to damage due to issues like a faulty wiring system. Here are common signs that an AC's thermostat is faulty and needs replacement.

AC Doesn't Turn On and Off

One of the most obvious signs that you need to replace the thermostat is if it doesn't turn your AC on and off when it should. The reason could be a malfunctioning thermostat or a problem with the AC itself. Contact a professional AC technician to inspect the unit and determine if the thermostat needs replacement.

Your Home Has Different Temperatures in Each Room

If it feels like some rooms in your home are always warmer or colder than others, this could be a sign that you have issues with the wiring of your thermostat. This can occur when the thermostat doesn't read the temperature accurately, or if it doesn't send signals properly to your HVAC system to regulate the temperatures in each room.

Inaccurate Thermostat Reading

Your thermostat needs to accurately detect the temperature of your home so that it can regulate it properly. If you notice that your thermostat displays an incorrect reading, such as a cooler temperature than what you're experiencing in your home, there could be a problem with it. If you suspect that the temperature readings are inaccurate, verify it using other means such as a thermometer.

Your Thermostat's Display Isn't Working

The display of your thermostat gives you a clear picture of what settings you have chosen and what temperature you should expect in each room. If this display isn't working properly, it could mean that there is a problem with the wiring or sensors within the device. Have a professional inspect the AC thermostat to determine if it needs repair or replacement.

Unusual High Energy Bills

If you have unusually high energy bills that you can't account for, your AC thermostat could be the problem. When your HVAC system runs constantly due to improper thermostat settings, it can waste money on excessive heating and cooling costs. Your HVAC system should only run when necessary to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home.

If you notice either of the signs above, it could be time to replace your AC's thermostat. Always contact a professional if you suspect your AC thermostat is faulty or if you have other AC problems.