Do you want to know how to fix your Amazon Smart Thermostat delayed start error? We can help you resolve it with the solutions in this guide!
It’s a frustrating error, especially if you’re in the middle of a hot day and your cooling does not kick in right away.
If this happens to your thermostat, we’re looking at a power delivery issue where your entire system may not be getting sufficient power.
To resolve the delayed start error with your Amazon Smart Thermostat, replace the batteries with fresh ones, and ensure the C wire is connected to your thermostat’s wiring. If you don’t have a C wire, consider using a power adapter to connect it to your thermostat, which should help fix the issue.
We can now look into this issue more closely and figure out the source, then move on to the complete troubleshooting steps to resolve it.
What Causes Amazon Thermostat Delayed Start
This particular error is mainly caused by your thermostat not receiving enough power.
It can also be caused by not getting the wiring right, but it still affects how your device is getting power.
Examine the wiring, batteries, and app settings so you can be one step ahead as you attempt to fix this problem.
1. Not Enough Power
If your thermostat and HVAC system is not receiving sufficient power, it will display this error.
It essentially delays the start of your system, so it does not suffer from more damage due to not enough power.
2. Wrong Wiring Configuration
We’re looking at your thermostat’s C wire here since not having it connected can affect how your device works.
You need to have it properly seated so it can provide power to your thermostat and send signals to your HVAC.
3. Alexa Settings Problem
Not configuring your thermostat’s settings can cause the delayed start issue.
The app could be set to start at a later time that’s why your system does not turn on right away.
4. HVAC System Fault
You may be experiencing an issue or fault with your HVAC where it simply does not turn on.
Now that you have a pretty good idea of what’s happening with your thermostat, we can now start fixing it.
Let’s move to the complete fix guide so you can resolve this issue right away!
How to Fix Amazon Smart Thermostat Delayed Start
Before you attempt to fix your thermostat’s delayed start error, it’s recommended that you restart it by turning it off at the breaker.
It’s possible that what you’re experiencing is a temporary issue, and performing a system restart should fix it and save you time.
In case restarting your system does not work, you can proceed with the rest of these steps:
Solution #1: Replace the Battery of Your Amazon Smart Thermostat
If your Amazon Smart Thermostat suddenly displays the delayed start error, the first thing you need to check is its batteries.
Even though your thermostat has a C wire which supplies its power, it still uses batteries as a backup. It’s likely that the batteries are dying and need replacing.
Here’s how to replace the battery on your thermostat:
- Remove the front panel of your thermostat.
- Pull out the old batteries.
- Replace with new ones.
- Put the panel back onto the wall mount.
- Check if you’re still receiving the delayed start error.
Note: You will need a couple of AA batteries for replacement.
Solution #2: Remove the Thermostat from Your Alexa App
The next step you can take would be to remove your thermostat from the Alexa app. There could be issues with the app that are causing this particular error.
Incompatibilities can occur between the app and your thermostat where the app is not doing an excellent job managing it.
Here’s how to remove the thermostat from the app:
- Open the Alexa app on your phone.
- Go to Devices.
- Find your thermostat from the device list.
- Tap on it and select Settings.
- Select Trash to remove it.
Tip: You will need to connect it again with your Alexa app. We recommend resetting it to factory settings before linking it to the app.
Solution #3: Reset Your Amazon Smart Thermostat
If you’re still getting the delayed start error with your Amazon Smart Thermostat, you can resolve it by restoring it to factory settings.
This is a handy step to know to quickly make that decision when an error starts to get out of hand. The delayed start error is not usually a cause for concern.
However, if it starts to reoccur more often and is disrupting your usual routines, you can consider resetting your thermostat to see if it resolves the issue.
Here are the steps to reset your thermostat to factory settings:
- Press the Up and Down temperature buttons.
- Also, press the Mode button.
- Press and hold these three buttons for at least 10 seconds.
- Wait until rEs appears on your thermostat’s screen.
- Release the other buttons, but continue to press the Mode button.
Note: After resetting it to factory settings, you will need to reconfigure it again since your previous settings will be deleted.
Solution #4: Make Sure to Connect the C Wire to Your Thermostat
The C wire is often a point of contention with smart thermostat systems. However, when it comes to Amazon’s version, you need to have it connected correctly to your thermostat’s wiring panel.
It’s an important wire that supplies power to your thermostat, so it continues to connect to your WiFi and adjust your home’s temperatures constantly.
Here’s how to check if your thermostat has the C wire:
- Open your thermostat’s front panel.
- Check the wiring under the front panel.
- Look for the C terminal.
- Make sure there is a wire connecting to it.
- If there is none, you will need to check for the common wire.
Note: Your thermostat setup might need a C wire power adapter kit if your home does not have a C wire handy.
Tip: You can also check your thermostat’s wiring instructions and compare it with your current wiring to see if all the connections are correct.
Solution #5: Set Your Thermostat Properly Using the Alexa App
Your Alexa app settings can also play a factor in why your thermostat can display the delayed start error.
It may not be configured properly where it’s not set to Cool or Heat mode. The temperature set on the app may be wrong and does not signal your HVAC unit to turn on.
If this is the case, you will need to go back into the Alexa app and set it up correctly so your unit starts up as intended.
Here’s how to configure your thermostat:
- Open the Alexa app on your phone.
- Tap on the Devices icon on the bottom menu.
- Make sure to set your thermostat to Cool mode.
- Set your temperature below room temperature.
- Check if your HVAC runs on cue.
Note: Make sure that your thermostat responds via the Alexa app to know that you’re not dealing with a software issue.
If you’re still experiencing the delayed start error after completing these troubleshooting steps, feel free to contact Amazon customer support for assistance.
We also recommend seeking the help of a professional if you think you’re dealing with a problem with your HVAC unit.
Read Next: Amazon Smart Thermostat Won’t Turn On? (Fixed)
Bottom Line
Now that you know how to fix your Amazon Smart Thermostat delayed start, you’ll be able to get rid of this problem in no time.
It’s an easy fix, but if you’re not comfortable dealing with live wires, make sure to contact a licensed professional to help you out.
Finn Wheatley holds a Master’s Degree in Computer Science from UCL, London. He helped small data science consultancy firms, helping large corporations to grow their data capabilities, deploy advanced machine learning-based analytics and troubleshoot tech-related issues. Check out more about him here.