Programmable Thermostat on the Fritz?

In the age of technology, the latest innovations can make everyday life simpler and more comfortable - the programmable thermostat is no exception. With a programmable thermostat, you can adjust the temperature in your home to meet even your most nuanced needs. Better yet, using a programmable thermostat can save up to $180 a year on your home energy bill. But as all lovers of technology know, sometimes our gadgets fail us - and then what do you do?

So, your thermostat appears to be on the fritz... there are a few simple things you can check before calling your local service technician: 

• Check the batteries: Now, if your thermostat is hardwired to your HVAC unit, dead batteries are not the root of your problem. However, if your thermostat is battery powered, changing the batteries may solve the issue. 
• Check the wire connections: Verify that your thermostat is mounted properly. Even if the thermostat was installed correctly, wire connections may come apart as time goes by. After turning off the thermostat and its power supply, remove the cover of the thermostat and fix any loose wires. 
• Check the circuit breaker: Check your circuit breaker to insure that the issue isn't ultimately due to a tripped breaker. Note: If a breaker is tripped, it's usually for a reason. This could be due to a lightning strike in a bad thunderstorm, but if the problem persists, contact a service technician. 
• Check your settings: We've certainly reached a zenith of technology, where thermostats like the Honeywell Lyric can be adjusted to meet your every mood and keep up with your fluctuating schedule. That doesn't mean these settings are infallible. Verify that your thermostat is on the correct setting (AM or PM if you're using a 12 hour schedule, occupied as opposed to unoccupied, etc.) 
• Check your air filter: A blocked air filter may actually be the culprit, and this could lead to a more serious air conditioning issue. Some air filters require monthly replacement, while some more efficient filters have a longer lifespan. This is a simple step to take that may ameliorate the larger AC issue at hand. 
• Get to the heart of the issue: Switch your fan from "auto" to "on." If the fan comes on, you at least have power to your indoor unit. However, your outdoor unit could still be the underlying problem. If the fan is running in your outdoor unit, this indicates that the outdoor unit has power as well. This information will be helpful when contacting your service provider. 

If the problem persists after taking the above steps, contact a Brandywine Valley service technician to diagnose the problem.