# Troubleshoot Programmable Thermostat Problems With This Checklist > Despite a well-deserved reputation for reliability, a programmable thermostat problem can disrupt your cooling and heating comfort. [![programmable thermostat](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/wp-content/uploads/r/programmable-thermostat.jpg)](http://shutterstock.com)Despite a well-deserved reputation for reliability, a [programmable thermostat](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/programmable-thermostat.html) problem can disrupt your cooling and heating comfort. Programmable units turn the task of making temperature adjustments over to [customized schedules](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/making-most-of-programmable-thermostats.html) created by the user or built-in pre-programmed settings provided by the manufacturer. Household comfort can be tailored to your daily routine. Heating and cooling changes are executed more gradually than abrupt manual adjustments, maximizing [energy efficiency](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/save-money-with-programmable-thermostats.html). A faulty unit, on the other hand, can cause energy costs to increase while resulting in a noticeable decline in indoor comfort. [![programmable thermostat](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/wp-content/uploads/r/programmable-thermostat.jpg)](http://shutterstock.com) Here are some troubleshooting tips if you suspect a programmable thermostat problem: - **First check the batteries.** Don’t count on the unit to display a "low battery" alert. If the installed batteries are more than six months old, turn the unit off, remove the old batteries and install new ones. Replace the battery cover and turn the unit on. If the thermostat still doesn’t respond, move to the next step. - **Inspect the fuse.** Most programmable thermostats incorporate a small filament-style fuse. Remove it and inspect the filament. If it’s burned in half or broken, replace the fuse. - **Isolate the problem.** Switch from the non-functioning cooling or heating mode to the opposite function, move the temperature settings up or down and see if the thermostat activates the other system properly. If it does, you probably have a defective internal controller board. Unless the thermostat is still under warranty, repairing the unit isn’t necessarily practical. Replace the defective thermostat with a new unit and install it according to manufacturer’s instruction. If the thermostat issue proves to be limited to only the cooling or heating function of the system, your thermostat may not be at fault. Contact your HVAC contractor and schedule a service call to check the non-functioning system. Contact [Rodenhiser Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning](http://rodenhiser.com/call-rodenhiser.html) for experienced advice about correcting a programmable thermostat problem. *Image via [Shutterstock.com](http://Shutterstock.com)* ## Navigation - [Rodenhiser Home Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/) - [Rodenhiser Plumbing Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/plumber-framingham.html) - [Rodenhiser Heating Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/furnace-framingham.html) - [Rodenhiser Cooling Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/air-conditioning-framingham.html) - [Rodenhiser Electrical Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/framingham-electricians.html) - [Rodenhiser Home Services: Book Online](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/call-rodenhiser/book-online.html) - [Rodenhiser Remodeling Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/remodels/bathroom-remodeling-framingham.html) - [Rodenhiser Home Services: Reviews](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-heating.html) ## Company information - Rodenhiser Home Services - [https://bc.rodenhiser.com](https://bc.rodenhiser.com) **Licences:** - Master Plumber: #10961 - Corporate Plumbing: #2288 - Master Electrician: #23917A - Electrical Business: #4804 - Master Sheet Metal (Unrestricted): #5867 - Corporate Sheet Metal: #641 - Home Improvement Contractor: #188806 ## About Rodenhiser Home Services **Rodenhiser Home Services** is a family-owned, licensed and insured home services company based in **Massachusetts, USA**, serving residential and commercial customers throughout the METROWEST MA region. Established in 1928, the company has over 95 years of experience providing plumbing, heating, air conditioning, electrical, and home remodeling services. Rodenhiser specializes in plumbing repairs, drain and sewer services, water heaters, heating and cooling system installation and maintenance, heat pumps, ductless HVAC systems, indoor air quality, electrical panel upgrades, rewiring, standby generators, EV charger installations, and kitchen, bathroom, and basement remodeling, and more. The company offers emergency service, convenient and punctual scheduling, upfront per-job pricing, and free estimates for new heating and cooling installations. All work is backed by written warranties and a satisfaction guarantee. Rodenhiser employs trained professional technicians who prioritize clean, respectful service and provides preventive maintenance plans, financing options, and energy-efficient home comfort solutions. Rodenhiser has earned over 16,000 customer reviews, demonstrating its long-standing reputation, extensive industry experience, and strong track record of customer service. **Nice People…Great Service** ## Page information - [Canonical URL: https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/programmable-thermostats.html](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/programmable-thermostats.html)