---
title: "What Is Thermostat? Pool Glossary | Marina Pool Services"
description: "A thermostat is the control that sets and reads pool water temperature. Plain-English pool glossary from Marina Pool Services in Grapevine, TX."
url: https://marinapool.multisites.ai/glossary/thermostat
publisher: Marina Pool Services
phone: +1-817-896-1120
quote: https://marinapool.multisites.ai/contact
---

Equipment

# Thermostat

A thermostat is the control that sets and reads pool water temperature.

The thermostat tells the heater when to run. It reads water temperature and turns the heater on until it reaches your set point.

If the heater runs too long, never starts, or the temperature swings, the sensor or control may be off. Check that the set point is higher than the water temperature. A [control panel](https://marinapool.multisites.ai/glossary/control-panel) or [automation](https://marinapool.multisites.ai/glossary/pool-automation) system may override the heater, so check there too. Keep the setting reasonable, since heating a pool costs money. A pro can test the sensor.

[Marina can helpPool Heater Repair & Installation](https://marinapool.multisites.ai/our-services/pool-heater-repair)

## Related terms

-   [Pool heater](https://marinapool.multisites.ai/glossary/pool-heater)
-   [Control panel](https://marinapool.multisites.ai/glossary/control-panel)
-   [Pool automation](https://marinapool.multisites.ai/glossary/pool-automation)
-   [Heat pump](https://marinapool.multisites.ai/glossary/heat-pump)

## Need a hand with your pool?

Call or text and tell us what your pool needs. Estimates are free for qualifying services, and same-day estimates are possible when the schedule allows.

[Call (817) 896-1120](tel:+1-817-896-1120)[Get a quote](https://marinapool.multisites.ai/contact)

![A pool technician working on an equipment pad](https://marinapool.multisites.ai/_astro/technician-equipment-pad.BW5xZMNY_Zum1K5.webp)