There can be several reasons why your Honeywell thermostat is flashing. One common reason is that the thermostat has a built-in 5-minute delay to protect your equipment. This delay is designed to allow the system to safely respond and prevent any potential damage.
When you see the “Cool On” or “Heat On” flashing on the thermostat display, it means that the thermostat is in the process of activating the cooling or heating system. During this time, it is important to be patient and wait for the 5-minute delay to pass before expecting any changes in temperature.
The flashing “Snowflake” or “Flame” symbol indicates that the thermostat is actively communicating with the cooling or heating system. This is a normal operation and does not indicate any issue with your thermostat.
It is important to note that the thermostat may also display the word “Wait” during this time. This is another indication that the system is in the delay mode and you should wait for the 5-minute period to pass before expecting any changes.
The 5-minute delay is crucial in protecting your equipment, especially if there have been frequent on-off cycles or if the system has been recently turned on or off. This delay helps prevent any potential damage to the compressor or other components of the system.
In my personal experience, I have encountered situations where homeowners would become impatient and try to adjust the thermostat repeatedly when they see the flashing symbols. This can actually prolong the delay period and may even cause further issues with the system.
It is important to remember that the 5-minute delay is a safety feature and should not be interrupted. If you are experiencing long delays or if the flashing symbols persist for an extended period of time, it may indicate a potential issue with your cooling or heating system. In such cases, it is recommended to consult a professional HVAC technician to diagnose and resolve the problem.
To summarize, the flashing “Cool On,” “Heat On,” “Snowflake,” or “Flame” symbols on your Honeywell thermostat indicate that the system is in the delay mode, allowing it to respond safely. It is important to wait for the 5-minute delay to pass before expecting any changes in temperature. Interrupting the delay can potentially cause damage to your equipment. If the flashing symbols persist for an extended period or if you experience long delays, it is advisable to seek professional assistance.