How to Use the “Hold” and “Run” Buttons on Your Thermostat?

set hold run thermostat

Understanding how to use your thermostat properly can make a big difference in your home’s comfort and your energy bills. Two of the most commonly misunderstood features are the “Hold” and “Run” buttons. In this guide, we’ll break down what these buttons do, when to use them, and how they can help you save energy and money.

What Does the “Hold” Button on a Thermostat Do?

The “Hold” button on your thermostat lets you manually set and maintain a specific temperature, temporarily overriding your preset schedule. Once activated, the thermostat stays at your selected temperature until you turn off the “Hold” or press “Run” to resume your regular settings.

Example Use:

Imagine your thermostat is set to reduce heating while you’re usually at work. If you’re staying home unexpectedly, hitting “Hold” keeps the temperature comfortable without changing the entire schedule.

This feature is especially useful for:

  • Staying home during unexpected schedule changes
  • Extended vacations
  • Sudden weather changes

When Should You Use the “Hold” Button?

Use the “Hold” function when:

  • Your schedule changes: Maybe you’re working from home one day or having guests over.
  • You’re going on vacation: Set an energy-efficient temperature while you’re away.
  • Weather conditions shift suddenly: Override the schedule to stay comfortable during heatwaves or cold snaps.

How to Set the “Hold” Temperature on Your Thermostat

Setting the “Hold” temperature is simple:

  1. Use the up/down arrows to choose your desired temperature.
  2. Press the “Hold” button to activate.
  3. Your thermostat will maintain that temperature until you cancel the hold or switch back to the schedule.

Look for a visual indicator on the display, such as “Hold” mode or a lock icon.

What Does the “Run” Button on a Thermostat Do?

The “Run” button tells your thermostat to return to its programmed schedule. If you’ve made a manual adjustment or used the “Hold” function, pressing “Run” cancels the temporary settings and restores your normal heating or cooling plan.

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When Should You Use the “Run” Button?

Use the “Run” button after:

  • Returning from a trip where the thermostat was set to an energy-saving temperature.
  • Hosting a party or event where you needed a more comfortable temperature temporarily.
  • Reacting to extreme weather and now want to go back to your regular routine.

How to Switch from “Hold” to “Run” Mode

Switching back is easy:

  • Simply press the “Run” button.
  • Your thermostat will immediately resume the preset schedule.

This helps avoid unnecessary energy use and ensures your home stays efficient and comfortable.


Energy Savings: How “Hold” and “Run” Help You Save

Used wisely, both features can help reduce energy consumption:

  • The “Hold” button is perfect for extended absences. Set a slightly higher (summer) or lower (winter) temperature to save energy while you’re not home.
  • The “Run” button ensures your HVAC system follows an energy-efficient schedule that adjusts automatically throughout the day.

Pair these features with a smart thermostat for even greater savings, learning your habits and adjusting settings accordingly.

Can All Thermostats Use “Hold” and “Run”?

Most modern programmable thermostats include “Hold” and “Run” functions. If yours doesn’t, it might be time to consider upgrading to a newer or smart thermostat model for better control, comfort, and efficiency.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common errors when using “Hold” and “Run”:

  • Forgetting to cancel “Hold”: This can lead to higher energy bills if your home stays unnecessarily warm or cool.
  • Not using “Hold” during vacations: Your HVAC system might work overtime when it doesn’t need to.
  • Pressing “Run” too early: Allow changes to take effect before switching back to your schedule.

Conclusion

The “Hold” and “Run” buttons on your thermostat aren’t just extra features—they’re powerful tools for keeping your home comfortable while reducing energy usage. Whether you’re heading on vacation, staying home unexpectedly, or just reacting to sudden weather changes, knowing how to use these functions effectively can save you time, energy, and money.

For expert advice on setting up or upgrading your thermostat, contact GNV Heating and Air Conditioning. We’re here to help you make the most of your HVAC system for year-round comfort and efficiency.

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