How Your Thermostat Really Works
Most people don’t give their thermostat much thought. It’s just... there. You bump it up when it’s cold, down when it’s hot, and hope it does what it’s supposed to do. But what if we told you that small device—the one you barely notice—is actually the brain of your home’s HVAC system? And if it’s not working right, your entire system might be running harder, using more energy, and costing you more than it should—without you even knowing it.
Your Thermostat Does More Than Set the Temperature
Think of your thermostat like the steering wheel of your HVAC system. It doesn’t do the driving, but it tells your system where to go, how fast, and for how long.
Here’s what your thermostat is actually doing behind the scenes:
- It measures the current indoor temperature and compares it to your set point.
- It signals your AC or furnace to start or stop based on that comparison.
- It cycles the system to maintain consistent comfort throughout the day.
- It controls fan settings, timing, and, in modern systems, even zoned heating and cooling.
If it’s even slightly off—or not calibrated correctly—your system might be short-cycling, overworking, or running inefficiently. That means more wear and tear, higher energy bills, and less comfort for you.
Common Thermostat Problems That Fly Under the Radar
Here in the Twin Cities, we see the same thermostat issues pop up year after year:
- Inaccurate readings: If your thermostat reads 72°, but it’s actually 68°, you’ll feel it—and so will your energy bill.
- Bad placement: Thermostats placed near windows, kitchens, or direct sunlight can misread the temperature, causing unnecessary heating or cooling.
- Outdated models: Older thermostats don’t offer the precision or programmability of newer digital or smart models.
- Disconnected sensors or wiring issues: Even minor electrical faults can prevent your system from receiving the right signals.
- Short-cycling: If your system turns on and off too frequently, it could be a sign your thermostat is struggling to communicate properly.
All of this leads to one thing: your system is working harder than it needs to, and your home still doesn’t feel quite right.
The Case for a Smart Thermostat
If you’ve been considering a thermostat upgrade, now might be the perfect time. Smart thermostats offer:
- Remote control from your phone or tablet
- Learning features that adapt to your schedule
- Energy usage reports that help you save money
- Zoning options for room-by-room control
- Integration with smart home systems like Alexa, Google Home, or Apple HomeKit
They’re not just a luxury anymore—they’re a cost-saving tool that helps you fine-tune comfort while putting you in full control of your environment.
Our technicians can recommend models, install them for you, and even walk you through how to use them. Once it’s set, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.
The Bottom Line? Your Thermostat Drives Everything
Even if your furnace and AC are in perfect shape, a faulty or outdated thermostat can undo all that good. It’s a small part with a big job—and if it’s not doing its job right, nothing else works the way it should.
Whether you’re dealing with an old model, suspect something’s off, or just want to upgrade to something smarter and more energy-efficient, we’re here to help.
Upgrade Your Thermostat to Be HVAC Smart
Don’t let a simple device cost you big. At Bob Boldt HVAC we are releasing our very own smart thermostat that communicates directly with us, your HVAC specialists, to ensure your system is prepped for the season and stays operational all year round!
Small change. Big difference. Better comfort.
Sincerely and thanks,
Bob Boldt
Owner, Bob Boldt HVAC
(651) 318-0913
