Have you ever encountered the frustrating “Waiting for Equipment” message on your Honeywell thermostat display? It’s a common occurrence that can leave you wondering why your AC or furnace isn’t kicking in. Let’s dive into the details and shed some light on this situation.
The “wait,” ” waiting for equipment,” or flashing “cool on” message typically pops up when your thermostat has recently turned off your HVAC system, but sudden temperature changes trigger the need for immediate action. This could happen if someone adjusts the set temperature on the thermostat or if there’s a significant temperature fluctuation due to a door or window being opened.
But why does this message appear in the first place?
Well, it’s all about protecting your HVAC system. Honeywell incorporates a delay mechanism into their thermostats to protect the compressor from potential damage. Starting the compressor too quickly after shutdown can lead to a phenomenon called “vapor lock,” where the compressor’s motor faces resistance when trying to move the pistons and circulate the refrigerant.
In some cases, the motor may even lock up completely, resulting in excess heat and potential burnout. Repairing a burnt-out compressor can be quite costly.
To prevent these issues, it’s essential to allow sufficient time for the pressures within the compressor to equalize. Starting up your HVAC system before this equalization occurs can strain the motor and increase the risk of damage.
Therefore, Honeywell’s thermostat implements a delay period (minimum off-timer) after shutdown to give your equipment a chance to stabilize.
How long will the thermostat blink “Waiting for Equipment” last?
You might be wondering how long this “Waiting for Equipment” blinking period will last. The thermostat includes a built-in compressor protection feature known as the minimum off-timer. This timer ensures that the compressor remains off for a few minutes before restarting, preventing any potential equipment damage.
If it lasts longer than five minutes, it could be a sign of a potential issue with the voltage reaching your thermostat. In such cases, it’s advisable to consult a professional contractor who can verify the voltage levels and ensure they fall within an acceptable range. They will also check for any shorted wires causing the prolonged blinking.
How to Fix The Honeywell Thermostat Wait Message?
Unfortunately, Honeywell doesn’t provide a direct solution. Even rebooting the thermostat won’t make it disappear. Instead, whenever your HVAC system turns off, a countdown timer begins. The system will remain inactive until this timer runs out, typically taking around three to five minutes.
In my tests, I found that the most effective way to overcome this message is simply to wait it out. I patiently waited five minutes on our thermostat, and the message disappeared. The thermostat then displayed the reassuring “Cool On” message, indicating everything was functioning correctly.
We understand how frustrating it can be to encounter such technical issues as the “Waiting for Equipment” message shows on your Honeywell Smart Thermostat. We hope our accurate and detailed guidance ensures you can confidently address any thermostat-related issues. Let us be your trusted partner on your HVAC how-to, and together, we’ll keep your home comfortable and your equipment protected.
