Thermostat Red Light Flashing Meaning and Fix
Most people who notice their thermostat flashing for the first time question what does it mean when your thermostat is blinking. Just a heads up, this is an indication that the outdoor unit is “locked-out.”
This means that the outdoor unit has shut itself because of a problem, and it relays signals to the thermostat to show that the problem has persisted. If this happens, the indoor unit will keep on running because it doesn’t recognize that there is a problem.
Most systems come with a diagnostic feature. Therefore, when you see the red light blinking, it flashes a code. It is possible to count the number of flashes. Mostly it’s between two to nine and the cycle continues.
To reset the system you have to turn the thermostat “off” then wait for thirty seconds before turning it back on. This will reset the system but it will take as long as ten minutes before the outdoor unit starts-up.
There are instances where your thermostat will “lock out” due to weather-related condition or on a fluke. In such instances, the problem can be solved by resetting your thermostat. If it persists chances are that there is a problem and you should schedule for service. Some of the common causes of this problem include;
- Defrosting too much
- Low pressure or low-temperature switch opened
- High temperature or high-pressure switch opened
Understand that not all system is designed the same. There are thermostats that require you to shut off the power to the indoor unit momentarily, then turn it back on if the light stays on meaning. When this happens, the light should also go out.
Check after ten minutes to see whether the outdoor unit is running. If the unit doesn’t start, or the thermostat red light flashing persists you should seek professional help. That is after you have checked the obvious like the outdoor reset button or tripped breakers.