
Cooling Problems: Is My Thermostat to Blame?
Considering the intense heat of our summer season, ensuring optimal performance from our air conditioners is crucial in the Southwest.
Various factors can contribute to subpar cooling performance. Sometimes, the air conditioner isn’t the root cause; the thermostat is the culprit. Your thermostat is crucial in regulating your home cooling system’s operation.
Recognizing signs of thermostat issues is essential to maintaining a comfortable home environment. If you suspect your thermostat is causing cooling problems, you may want to consider the following.
The Impact of Thermostat Placement
Although it might seem like a minor detail, the placement of your thermostat significantly affects your cooling system’s performance. Incorrect placement can lead to inaccurate temperature readings and inefficient cooling.
Your thermostat should be positioned away from direct sunlight, drafts, and heat sources such as windows, doors, and appliances. Poor placement can cause your air conditioner to cycle on and off too frequently or not enough, leading to inconsistent indoor temperatures and higher energy bills.
Why Placement Matters
When a thermostat is exposed to direct sunlight or drafts, it can give false readings to your cooling system. For instance, if placed in a sunny spot, the thermostat might register a higher temperature than the actual room temperature, causing the air conditioner to overwork.
Conversely, if located near a drafty area, it might read lower temperatures, resulting in inadequate cooling. Strategically placing your thermostat in a central location, away from these influences, helps ensure accurate temperature regulation and efficient cooling performance.
Regular Maintenance for Optimal Performance
Keeping your thermostat clean and well-maintained is essential for accurate operation. Dirt and debris can accumulate over time, interfering with the thermostat’s sensors and leading to incorrect temperature readings. Regularly dusting and cleaning your thermostat can prevent these issues and maintain efficiency.
Simple Maintenance Tips
To keep your thermostat functioning properly, gently clean it with a soft brush or cloth to remove dust and debris. Ensure that the area around the thermostat is also free from obstructions affecting airflow and temperature sensing.
Additionally, check the thermostat’s wiring and connections periodically to ensure they are secure and in good condition. Simple maintenance steps like these can significantly improve your cooling system’s performance and extend its lifespan.
Choosing the Right Thermostat for Your Needs
The type of thermostat you install can greatly impact your cooling system’s efficiency and your overall comfort. Various thermostat options are available, each with its features and benefits. The key is to choose a thermostat that suits your lifestyle and preferences.
Smart Thermostats
Smart thermostats are becoming increasingly popular due to their advanced features and convenience. They allow you to control your home’s temperature via smartphone apps remotely, set schedules, and even learn your temperature preferences over time. A smart thermostat can enhance your cooling system’s efficiency and provide greater control over your indoor climate.
These devices often come with energy usage reports and tips, helping you to identify patterns and adjust settings for optimal savings. Additionally, many smart thermostats integrate with other smart home devices, offering seamless automation and improved home comfort.
Programmable Thermostats
Programmable thermostats offer flexibility by allowing you to set different temperatures for various times of the day. It can lead to energy savings, as you can reduce cooling when you’re not home or during the night when temperatures are typically lower. Ensuring your programmable thermostat is set correctly can help you maintain a comfortable home while reducing energy consumption.
Moreover, these thermostats are ideal for maintaining a consistent temperature schedule without manual adjustments, making it easier to adhere to energy-efficient practices. You can enjoy a comfortable environment while minimizing energy use by programming your thermostat to cool down the house just before you wake up or return from work. In regions with extreme temperatures, this can also help extend the life of your HVAC system by preventing overuse.
Signs Your Thermostat Needs Attention
Recognizing when your thermostat is malfunctioning is crucial to preventing larger issues with your cooling system. Here are some common signs that your thermostat may need attention:
Inconsistent Temperatures
If different rooms in your home have varying temperatures, your thermostat might not accurately control your system. It can happen if the thermostat is placed in an area that doesn’t represent the average temperature of your home, such as near a drafty window or in direct sunlight.
Uneven temperatures can also result from poor thermostat calibration or an aging device that no longer accurately measures temperatures. You might need to relocate your thermostat or upgrade to a more advanced model to resolve this. Ensuring the thermostat is centrally located and away from heat sources can help maintain a more consistent temperature throughout your home.
Unresponsive Controls
Difficulty adjusting the temperature or unresponsive controls can indicate a problem with the thermostat. This issue might stem from faulty wiring, dead batteries, or a malfunctioning interface. In some cases, dirt and dust buildup inside the thermostat can interfere with its internal components, leading to unresponsiveness.
Additionally, an outdated or damaged thermostat may need help communicating effectively with your HVAC system. If you encounter this problem, check the battery and clean the unit. If these steps don’t help, consider a professional inspection or replacement to restore proper functionality.
Constant Running or Short Cycling
The thermostat might give incorrect signals if your air conditioner runs continuously or turns on and off frequently. This condition, known as short cycling, can strain your cooling system excessively, leading to increased wear and tear and higher energy bills. Short cycling can be caused by a miscalibrated thermostat, incorrect temperature settings, or issues with the thermostat’s location.
For example, a thermostat near a heat source can cause the system to cycle on and off rapidly. To address this, ensure your thermostat is properly calibrated and positioned. If the problem persists, consulting with a professional HVAC technician can help diagnose and fix the underlying thermostat issues, ensuring efficient and reliable operation of your air conditioner.
When to Call a Professional
If you notice any of the above signs, it’s time to call a professional HVAC technician to diagnose and fix the problem. At Goettl Air Conditioning & Plumbing, our experienced technicians can quickly identify thermostat issues and recommend the best solutions. Whether you need a repair, replacement, or advice on the best thermostat, we’re here to help.
Benefits of Professional Installation
Professional installation ensures your thermostat is placed correctly and functions optimally. Technicians from Goettl Air Conditioning & Plumbing have the expertise to install and calibrate your thermostat accurately, ensuring it works harmoniously with your cooling system. It enhances your air conditioner’s performance, extends its lifespan, and improves energy efficiency.
Fix Your AC Thermostat Problem Today!
Your thermostat is vital in maintaining your home’s comfort and cooling efficiency. You can optimize your cooling system’s performance by ensuring proper placement, regular maintenance, and choosing the right type of thermostat.
If you experience any issues with your thermostat or air conditioner, contact Goettl Air Conditioning & Plumbing for expert assistance.
In addition to thermostat services, Goettl Air Conditioning & Plumbing offers various HVAC solutions, including air conditioner installation, maintenance, and repair. Our commitment to customer satisfaction means you can trust us to handle all your cooling needs professionally and carefully.
Testimonials
What Our Customers Say About Us










I think the guy that was supposed to be assigned to me had problems. My appointment was from 9-1 and Austin was assigned to me at 1:30 and Drove over an hour to get to me.
Now that's 💜
11/24/25 Seems this is an update not its own post. Adam was out to repair our filtration system. No muss no fuss and it was fixed. Awesomely competent guy







Job done quickly and efficiently. Thank you


March 2025 - Jesus Gloria came out in an instant to help us out and quickly fixed our problems. Give this man a promotion!
February 2025 - Our unit was working properly with the cold weather, but Michael showed up and had it fixed in no time! He was also nice enough to give my son a stuffed animal and flashlight. Great service.
September 2024 - Johnny Rivera and Billy Solis came by to fix some work for me and did a fantastic job. Give these guys a raise!




A special shout-out goes to Pablo, our technician. He was on time, friendly, and extremely knowledgeable. Pablo took the time to explain everything he was checking, walked me through the condition of each component, and gave helpful tips on how to keep our system running efficiently year-round. His attention to detail and pride in his work really stood out. Because of his professionalism and the overall quality of service, Goettl has definitely earned my trust and future business.
Highly recommend Goettl HVAC—and if you can, ask for Pablo!

Veronica and Kdyn did a great job cleaning our ducts too!

I have seen Goettl vans all over town and so I called them.
Got appointment right away and the Technician, Jef Eusepi, took care of our problem.



Call Goettl and was able to get us on the schedule due to a cancellation they had.
Jef Eusepi our tech was fantastic.
He explained everything and showed us pictures of what he was doing and fixing.
Would definitely recommend this Company and Jef.

He was knowledgeable and friendly and was able to flush the tank and get my hot water flowing again. Thanks again...






(Oldest)Jared was great. Got here promptly and fixed it quickly. Lifesaver on a 100+ degree day!







8/14/25 Update:
Billy, Goettl technician, service our AC late on Sunday night, then scheduled to come and double check the unit in a few days. Everything checks out and is working well now. Thanks Billy for great customer service
8/10/25 Update:
AC not working again since Friday night (8/8/25). I contacted Goettl as instructed, not satisfied with the response, still waiting for resolution and contact/communication from a manager.
*****
7/30/25 Update:
Goettl assistant install supervisor Nacho and his crew (Manny & Julio) assessed the entire system again today. They were polite and professional and made sure all our concerns were heard and addressed. It is believed the issue has been identified and fixed. Thanks Goettl for making the situation right!
7/22/25 Update:
Issues continue. Techs to arrive again today. Updated review to follow pending outcome.
7/2025 Update:
Goettl service technicians have returned to assist with some issues. Both Ian P. and Will M. we're both very professional it was believed issues were resolved. Dispatcher Betty was also able to hear my issues and arrange for a tech to arrive as quickly as possible.
*****
Initial review 2/2025:
Jorge "George" was respectful and easy to communicate with. He listened and answered all our questions. Informed us of what and how Goettl could do with the 20+yr old system in our home, and gave us time and space make the best decision for us. So far very pleased with Goettl's professional conduct and standards.







Gilbert Castaneda was our technician today for A/C maintenance. He was informative with all my questions, did his job in a timely manner and a very pleasant young man to work with.


Really a 5 star on original review.









On time, clean, and very thorough with any potential issues.
Thank you.



Thank you Jesus!
Adrianna Cardenas
Tyler Leija came to my home and flushed out my two water heater’s. This had never been done to the home since it was purchased in 2017. Let me tell you the stuff that came out of the water heater’s was an eye opener! It was filled with so much calcium deposits. Tyler was very knowledgeable and explained everything going on. Thank you Tyler for coming to our home and flushing out our water heaters.











Chris R came out for our Sadie Membership inspection and review before the cold comes here in TX. He did a fantastic job and really knows his stuff. Thank You!


As always great experience with Goettl services and staff. Thank you!
















Mike provided truly exceptional service. From the moment he arrived, it was clear he was extremely knowledgeable; he quickly and confidently diagnosed a very tricky issue that we had with our pipes, explaining everything clearly and answering all of our questions with patience. He also installed our new water heater and did an outstanding job. If you need a plumber who gets the job done right the first time, we highly recommend Mike. Thank you!








The Goettl team has been very professional and helpful to me as their customer. Thank you, Kelli Stoika.
PS… If there would’ve been 6 stars on the scale, that’s what I believe they should’ve received.




Sally






UPDATE Julian and his team, Nick & Jeffery, were here to fix my sewer pipe. They explained everything thoroughly and kept me apprised of their progress. When they finished, it looked as if they hadn’t been here even though they dug a giant whole in my yard! Most impressive! I highly recommend Goettl.
UPDATE November 14, 2025
Goettl continues to be a 5-star company for me. Always, on time, clear explanations, fair pricing, respectful of property and competent, friendly staff. Caelin was my team member today and upheld all of these values.


Jason and Marco operated like a well oiled machine with one replacing the AC unit while the other replaced the furnace. Clean up was excellent and the system works beautifully now.

I will definitely use their services going forward.
Thank you Goettl Air crew!

Greg Sanches

Thank you Jef, for helping me keep my home cozy and safe.

I especially want to give a shout out to Connor, who did the replacement, he was awesome. He was respectful and cleaned up afterwards. I even commented on how impressed I was that he was able to fit everything needed in a small space.
Overall I would recommend Goettl services especially in an inconvenient situation like mine. They will make you a priority.





Thank you,
Greg Sanches





















This past week our service technician was Andrew Morgan and he is such a friendly, knowledgeable, and skilled technician. He spent time making sure the job was done correctly and he explained it in terms that I could understand. Not only is our unit functioning even better than before, I also gained knowledge of how the system works.













I highly recommend Goettl as this is the second time l've used them in less than a year. (2 seperate issues)... and I highly recommend them..anytime and anyday.
They have exceeded to top any expectations I could have ever had with any company.


Jerry also noticed our water pressure was low after flushing toilet then trying to wash hands in bathroom sink which were so he suggested a new pressure regulator as we have had a new better water conditioning system installed. We now have the best water pressure even when using a shower and kitchen sink faucet at the same time. Also Jerry is a master plumber and we appreciate his knowledge and experience. Will definitely call Goettl again when a plumber is needed.
Ralph & Kathy Lesmeister



Darean Guerra today. He arrived on time and took the time to explain what he was going to do. He was very knowledgeable which helped me trust what he was doing. He left his work area clean. I am very pleased with his work.




Now we have a new flange, installed correctly, and ready for the new toilet!






The company is installing a tankless heater and the customer service is outstanding.
I recommend Geottl to all!


They made sure my carpet was covered and when they were all through they cleaned up perfectly
I would recommend your company to anyone looking to put in a new air conditioner.
Thank you so much for all you did for me.
Sincerely, June Jones

And I would highly recommend the company and the quality technicians like Jarod.
Jarod is the go to if you want excellent
Customer service and communication for any AC related issues. He is very knowledgeable, personable and trustworthy. I am grateful and satisfied.







They listened to my issue, were very through, checked for leaks, etc. I’ve lived in Lakeway for 30 years, used MANY local plumbers - but Goettl will definitely get all my business moving forward. HIGHLY recommend!
Ty, Wil & Adrian!

Everyone from the Goettl sales representative Christian, Tech / Advisor Josias recommended a HVAC A/C and Heating system replacement. Technicians team Veronica and her partner.


Jeremy Canchola serviced our mini-split today with the usual Goettl efficiency and professionalism.
Highly recommended!





