Should My Thermostat Make Clicking Noises?

Your heating system is one of the most important features in your home. No one wants to be caught with a broken furnace, especially in the colder winter months. Because these systems are complex, it can leave homeowners unsure if they are working properly, particularly when the system starts making noises. Many of us have experienced the clicking noises produced by our thermostats as they turn on and off. And there are many reasons why this happens, some of these sounds are just normal furnace function while others can be cause for concern. If your thermostat keeps clicking it could indicate that you have an issue. It’s important to know what to listen for and when it’s time to contact an experienced heating technician for help. 

How Do Thermostats Work?

A thermostat is a device connected to your HVAC system that allows you to set your desired home temperature. It is usually a panel placed in a convenient and yet discreet location to allow you to set your room’s temperature to your desired heating or cooling setting. It constantly monitors the room temperature and controls your heating or air conditioning system to maintain that chosen temperature. If your thermostat is properly maintained and programmed correctly it can actually help reduce energy costs.

Why Is My Thermostat Clicking?

You may have heard the distinctive click of your heating system just before feeling the rush of warm or cool air from your vents as it turns on and wondered is this normal? Or is there a problem? The answer is, it is almost always normal to hear a clicking noise from your thermostat and they should be expected. The clicking sound is produced by two small mechanical relays inside your HVAC system. These relays move when the thermostat's internal circuit signals the HVAC to turn on or off.

Every thermostat generates these clicking sounds. However, depending on the ambient noise in the room or your thermostat's insulation, you may not always notice it. Rest assured that when you do hear it, it's a sign that your HVAC system is functioning correctly.

It is actually concerning if you don't hear the thermostat clicking on and off. This could indicate an issue with your HVAC system. It's normal for your thermostat and heating system as a whole to make certain types of sounds. If you don't hear anything, your system might not be functioning correctly and it’s probably time to call a professional.

When Does The Clicking Sound of My Thermostat Indicate a Problem with My HVAC System?

While a clicking thermostat is typically normal, there are situations where it might indicate an issue. For example, if it is clicking continually it could mean your furnace is cycling on and off too frequently. Some of the more noticeable clicking issues could be caused by the following:

Loose Mounting: If you've recently removed the thermostat housing, it might not be aligned correctly anymore. This will lead to louder clicks. Simply adjust the housing and tighten the screws to resolve this issue.

Improper Setting: If you haven't heard any clicking, your thermostat might be set too high or low. Ensure it's set slightly above the current room temperature for heating and slightly below for cooling.

Gas Supply: In the case of a gas furnace, clicking without heat might indicate a gas supply issue or a pilot light that has gone out. Ensure the gas supply is on and check the pilot light. If you smell gas, contact your gas company immediately and vacate the premises.

Air Filter: A clogged air filter can hinder air intake, affecting your HVAC system's performance. Unusual clicking or the absence of clicking may be related to filter issues. Regularly changing your filter can maintain system efficiency.

Although clicking is typically a normal part of your thermostat’s function there are times when it could be indicating a problem. It is always best to schedule routine maintenance of your HVAC system so that a technician can check it out and find small issues before they become big ones. Scheduling an annual checkup will make sure your system is working properly when you need it and even prolong the life of your heating system. If your heating system is making more clicking sounds than normal, or doesn’t seem to be working properly, reach out to an experienced HVAC technician near you to determine the problem.