Your digital thermostat may suddenly not work right. You walk up to it and the screen is blank? Uh oh. A thermostat with a blank screen can be vexing – and prevent you from adjusting your home’s temperature.
This is typically an easily resolved issue so don’t panic. In this blog, we’ll run through the most common reasons why a digital thermostat screen goes blank, and what you can do about it.
First, Don’t Panic – This Is Likely an Easy Fix
A blank thermostat screen is alarming, but there’s usually an easy explanation. Take a deep breath and approach the issue calmly and methodically.
Thermostats are made to be user-friendly and depend on. The blank screen typically suggests a minor problem like weak batteries or a tripped circuit breaker. Because if it is, with a couple of simple troubleshooting steps, you might have your thermostat display functioning again in minutes.
Double Check the Batteries
The first thing to check on any digital thermostat that has a blank display is the batteries. Most thermostats are powered by standard AA or AAA batteries.
As time passes, these batteries can begin to drain or die completely, which in turn causes the thermostat display to go blank. Before you take any other steps, take the thermostat off of its wall plate, and check the batteries.
Check for corrosion buildup that might not allow for proper contact. Make sure the batteries are inserted the correct way with the positive and negative sides aligned correctly.
If they’re dead or corroded, swap them out with a fresh pack of name-brand alkaline batteries, such as Duracell or Energizer. Make sure to change all the batteries at the same time.
Reinsert the batteries correctly, re-mount the thermostat on its wall plate and check whether the display returns. Most of the time, this basic battery check and replacement is the only thing needed to revive a blank display thermostat.
Inspect For Damage
If new batteries don’t make your thermostat display work, check the thermostat and wiring for damage next.
- Gently pull the thermostat away from the wall and look at the wiring connections. Ensure all the wires fit snugly into their designated terminals. Corroded connections can lead to power loss.
- Check for cracks or other damage to the thermostat housing. Extreme damage can affect internal circuits and lead to screen failure.
- Check the actual wiring for cuts, frayed or loose connections or crumbling insulation. Thermostat troubles can sometimes be caused by rodents chewing on wiring.
- Make sure insulation is intact and no bare wire showing. Short circuits will take out the thermostat.
If you notice any damage to the thermostat unit or wiring, you may need to be repaired or replaced. A HVAC technician can help.
Reset The Thermostat
If the batteries and wiring are OK, attempt a reset of the thermostat to factory defaults. This typically involves a little pinhole button that’s located on the rear of the unit.
Hold the reset button for five seconds. This will remove any strange software bugs and reset default options that might bring the display back to life.
After the reset, set the date, time, and any other custom settings. Then keep resetting the temperature and waiting a few minutes to see if the display comes on. A reset often cures wonky electronics.
Check The Circuit Breaker
A tripped circuit breaker is another possible cause of a blank screen on your thermostat. The transformer that reduces the power down for the thermostat wiring is usually connected to an HVAC circuit breaker in your main electrical panel.
Now go turn this breaker OFF, then ON. You should hear a click when it resets to the ON position. If the breaker was tripped, then this cycle can reset the power and reactivate the thermostat display.
On older systems, check for a blown fuse, too. If you find a blown fuse, replace it with a new one of the same amp rating. Reset power at the circuit level to see if it’s responsible for your thermostat display problems.
Contact An HVAC Technician For Persistent Issues
If you have confirmed the batteries, wiring, reset the unit, and looked in the circuit breaker, and still don’t see the thermostat screen it will need to be serviced. There is an internal fault or other glitch that requires professional diagnosis and repairs.
Do not keep flipping breakers on and off, you can damage the system by doing this. You don’t want to take chances with electrical hazards poking around in the wiring without training.
If you’re unsure, contact a local HVAC pro. Explain the problem over the phone and book a service appointment. Trained experts have special tools that can detect what caused your thermostat screen to stop working.
Don’t Sweat A Thermostat Blank Screen
A thermostat that doesn’t show anything on its screen can be an irritating problem for sure, but it’s seldom a disaster. More often than not, you can fix this problem yourself with some simple troubleshooting.
First, verify the batteries and electric source. Then check for broken wires or a tripped circuit breaker. If necessary, restore the thermostat unit to factory mode.
Following this logical, DIY method, we’re confident you’ll have your thermostat display up and running in no time. However, with respect to the ongoing blank screen issues, you should contact a professional HVAC technician who specializes in diagnosing and solving the underlying cause.
Call The HVAC Specialists at Mt. Pleasant AC & Heating
Has your home thermostat ceased to appear on the screen? Our expert team of AC and heater service professionals can make your thermostat do its job once more.
Never fear, as one of Charleston, SC’s leading HVAC companies, we have a wealth of experience with thermostat troubleshooting and repairs! We’ll identify the problem and have your thermostat display working again in no time.
Quality Work You Can Trust
Originally from the Charleston area, Mt. Pleasant AC & Heating has been a trusted name in HVAC for over 35 years. And our NATE-certified technicians are also trained to regularly stay up to date with heating and cooling technology.
We are well known for getting the job done right the first time and backing our work. Use our expertise of our top notch experts to get your thermostat blank screen fixed the right way.
Affordable Repair Rates
Not only do we have the expertise, but we also offer pretty affordable pricing on your thermostat troubleshooting and repair. We offer an upfront quote so you are aware of the cost. There are no secret charges, creeping extras.
Finally, affordably get your thermostat to work again. We also provide special pricing for senior citizens, military staff, and first responders!
Quick Response Times
No need to live longer with a non-working thermostat. Our dispatchers arrange schedules so we can be dispatched on time. We understand you value temperature control in your house.
For blinking and blank screen thermostat diagnosis and repair service, trust this post. We will have your system back up and running ASAP.
Call Now To Schedule Service
A dark, blank thermostat can put a brake on comfort in your Charleston area home. A technician from Mt. Pleasant AC & Heating will diagnose and repair any problem.
Call us today at (843-936-0137) for reliable and inexpensive expert thermostat blank screen help. Or request an appointment online