If your domestic central heating system is not working properly the thermostat should be one of the first items to check.
A faulty thermostat is a common problem associated with central heating boilers and heating systems in general.
Thermostats can fail suddenly but typically lose their accuracy over a period of time, usually after years of service.
When they lose their accuracy they measure temperature inaccurately giving false readings to the boilers controller unit. This then equates to the central heating boiler turning off and on at the wrong times.
If your boiler is not working properly and is either full on or off it could be a sign that the thermostat requires replacing with a new one.
Basic or programmable?
When choosing which new boiler thermostat to buy you can choose to purchase one that is a basic control or a programmable one. Not to be confused with a programmable timer control unit a thermostat of this type is actually a combination unit which can combine both units as one.
A basic central heating thermostat unit allows you to set the temperature the boiler kicks in and out with. A programmable one allows you to set a combination of different temperatures to match timings when you want your home to heat up or down.
A central heating repairer or plumber will go through a series of steps to see if your boiler thermostat is faulty or not. In addition to the programmer unit they will also inspect and test any timers, switches, the central heating pump unit, as well as operation of the boiler as well.
Remember, the home owner should not attempt to undertake any complex servicing or repair work on their central heating system. With gas boilers and central heating systems a qualified and approved heating engineer should be sourced instead.
