Why Is Your Thermostat Blank? Troubleshooting Common Causes

Travis Bennett • June 12, 2023

A blank thermostat can be frustrating and concerning, especially during hot or cold weather when you need your HVAC system to work properly. If your thermostat is not displaying any information, or only showing a blank screen, here are some possible reasons and solutions you can try.

 

Drain pan pool water

If your air conditioner’s drain line is clogged or not connected properly, the drain pan may fill up with water and trigger a secondary switch that turns off the system for safety reasons. To fix this, you can check the drain line for blockages or disconnects, clean the drain pan and line, and reset the switch according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

 

Power surge from lightning

Electrical storms can cause power surges that may damage your HVAC system or its components, including the thermostat. To protect your system, you can install surge protectors or lightning arrestors, which can intercept and redirect high voltage spikes away from your devices.

 

Blown fuses in unit

Short circuits or overloads can blow fuses in your air conditioner or furnace, which can cause your thermostat to go blank or lose power. To replace a blown fuse, you can consult your owner’s manual or contact a qualified technician who can safely diagnose and fix the issue.

 

Clogged drain in summer

During the summer, your air conditioner produces condensation that needs to drain away properly. If the drain line gets clogged with dirt, debris, or algae, the excess water can back up and trip a safety switch that turns off the unit. To prevent this, you can check your drain line periodically, clean it with bleach or vinegar, and make sure it has an accessible termination point to allow water to flow freely.

 

These are some of the most common causes of blank thermostats and some DIY or professional solutions you can try. However, if none of these fixes work or if you’re not comfortable handling HVAC issues on your own, you can always contact a trusted and licensed HVAC company for help. A professional technician can diagnose the problem accurately, provide safe and efficient repairs, and offer advice on how to prevent similar issues in the future. Don’t let a blank thermostat ruin your comfort or safety.

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