Like most people, you might not have given it much thought about replacing your thermostat since it was installed years ago. Your thermostat is one of the most important parts of my HVAC system. The thermostat is responsible for keeping the air temperature set to a specific temperature. Typically thermostats are very reliable but now and then they fail. A malfunctioning thermostat will have a hard time keeping the temperature constant. One minute or may be cold and the next, hot. This is a sign to replace. Older models of thermostats rely on a glass tube filled with mercury to operate. When the glass breaks, it can send mercury into the air. Upgrade to a newer device with a digital model to avoid this. Digital models are more accurate and hold a constant temperature. A newer programmable thermostat can save you money and cut heating costs. A programmable thermostat will save you money when you turn them off during the day when you’re not home or when you are sleeping. Sometimes, homeowners simply may have the wrong type of thermostat. This is a simple fix by replacing it with one that is specifically made to work with your unit. A HVAC professional can let you know if your thermostat is the correct type for your unit. If it’s been a while since you have taken a look at your thermostat, pay attention to the signs that it’s time to replace. You can always call a HVAC technician to conduct a full inspection and replace your thermostat.