If the digital display of your thermostat has gone blank, or it’s telling you to replace the batteries, use this guide to make easy work of a simple task.
Batteries Not Included
Many thermostats still use batteries, while others draw power from your home’s electrical or HVAC system. The typical battery-powered dial, switch, digital or programmable thermostat is going to take regular AA or AAA alkaline batteries, a button-style 3V lithium battery or a 9-volt battery. If you don’t know which kind of batteries your thermostat requires, you’ll soon find out.
It’s a good idea to change the thermostat battery each year on a scheduled date. The first day of fall season is a good choice. You might also want to change the batteries of your carbon monoxide (CO) detectors too. Before starting, gather a few simple tools, such as a short one-foot level and a screwdriver set.
- First, turn off the thermostat.
- Gently slide the thermostat housing up and off the wall mount plate. If it doesn’t slide up/off or up/back-tilt, you can probably just pull it off.
- Look at the back of the thermostat to see what kind of battery is required. You may need a screwdriver to carefully pry the battery out or to remove the cover.
- Note the direction of the plus and negative signs for AA and AAA batteries, and insert the new batteries in the appropriate slot.
- Gently wiggle the mount plate to see if it’s still firmly mounted to the wall. If it’s loose, tighten it as needed with a screwdriver.
- If you have an old thermostat that uses mercury, handle it very carefully. Mercury is a dangerous neurotoxin and should be handled or disposed of safely. In fact, you might consider upgrading to an energy-saving programmable thermostat.
At Sobieski Services, Inc., our goal is to help our customers in Delaware, Pennsylvania, Maryland and New Jersey learn more about energy and home comfort issues – especially HVAC and plumbing issues – so that they can save money and live in healthier, more comfortable homes.
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