Are you wondering how to adjust the heat anticipator on your thermostat?
Many of us rely on our thermostats to keep us warm from the frigid winter weather. Traps heat with a thermostat and keep a consistent temperature for you, no matter if you are home or sleeping.
But if you want to modify your thermostat, there are a few things that you can do. One of the things that you can modify is the anticipator.
In this article, we will talk about the anticipator and how to adjust it on your thermostat. Read along to learn more!
Turn Off the Power
Locate the circuit breaker that controls the power to your thermostat. Once you’ve located it, switch the circuit breaker to the off position, ensuring that the power to your thermostat is cut off and it will not turn back on without manual intervention. Remove all batteries or power supply from the thermostat to ensure it will not power back up when power is restored.
Remove the Cover
Find the screws that hold the plate to the base and remove them with a screwdriver. Carefully lift the plate off and note where the wires are connected to the back of the plate and the terminals around the thermostat. Take a photo of the connections with your phone or camera for reference.
Using a flathead screwdriver, unclip the wires from their current positions and disconnect them from the back of the plate. With the wires removed and the plate detached, you can now access the inside of the thermostat.
Locate the Heat Anticipator
Begin by identifying the model of your thermostat. Check for any identifying numbers on the face, back, or side of the device. Consult the user manual or an online resource to locate a wiring diagram, which should indicate the location of the anticipator or HA.
Usually, the HA appears as a small black or gold-colored cylindrical object that is part of the wiring connected to the thermostat. Depending on your model, the HA may be located right inside the casing, or it may be connected to the rear casing of the thermostat.
Check to ensure the HA is firmly connected and in the correct position. If there is no HA connected to your thermostat, contact your HVAC contractor for assistance.
Determine the Current Setting
First, locate the adjustment knob. Depending on your specific model, the knob may be located on the side of the thermostat or the back. Once located, turn the knob until it is pointing to the small metal bar located inside the honeycomb-shaped dial.
This bar should move freely and it indicates the current heat anticipator setting. To fine-tune the settings, use a multimeter to measure the resistance dial at the desired point.
Finally, turn the knob until the resistance matches the desired setting. Be sure to check the settings regularly as the settings may need to be adjusted regularly for maximum efficiency.
Adjust the Setting
Locate the setting dial on the front of your thermostat. On some models, the dial may be labeled, while on others not. Carefully turn the setting dial to the desired position.
If you want the thermostat to turn the heating system off sooner, turn the dial towards the lower numbers. If you set the dial to a higher number, the system will stay on for a longer period before turning off. Keep in mind that the setting affects the accuracy of temperature control.
Once you have adjusted the setting to your desired level, press the reset button to activate the setting. If you have any questions or need assistance, contact a professional. This guide should provide a basic overview of how to adjust the setting of the anticipator on your thermostat.
Test the Adjustment
You will want to make sure the power to the thermostat is shut off and that the thermostat is properly mounted. Then, you will need to check the temperature differential between the thermostat and the heating element. The temperature differential should be within + or – 1 degree.
If it is not within the specified range, you will need to adjust the setting. Use the owner’s manual to determine the correct setting for the anticipator based on the type of heating system and the temperature differential. Turn the power back on, and then test the thermostat setting for accuracy.
Monitor the System
Once the heat anticipator on your thermostat has been adjusted properly, it is important to test and monitor the system to make sure everything is working as planned. This is the last step in adjusting the heat anticipator. To monitor the system, make sure the thermostat’s indoor temperature is correct and is correctly reflecting the actual temperature inside the house.
To help with this, you can turn the thermostat up and down to simulate what it would do in cold or hot weather conditions and make sure it is running as expected. After monitoring the thermostat, you can observe the changes in the home’s temperature and make sure it is running as intended.
Monitoring the system is important to ensure that the thermostat is operating efficiently. It also allows you to make adjustments if needed to keep the home at a comfortable temperature. If you are not sure how to check this part, you can always consult the Residential Heating and Cooling manufacturer.
Learn How to Use Your Heat Anticipator Today
By following the above steps, you’ll be sure to have a properly adjusted heat anticipator. Regularly checking and adjusting the anticipator on your thermostat helps ensure that your HVAC system runs at its best. Now that you know how to adjust your thermostat, why not check it today?
If you want to read more articles aside from this basic thermostat troubleshooting overview, visit our blog.
