If you’ve ever found yourself puzzled by the “Hold” and “Run” buttons on your thermostat, you’re not alone. These buttons can be incredibly useful, but many homeowners are unsure about how to use them effectively. By understanding how these settings work, you can optimize your HVAC system for maximum comfort and energy savings. Let’s dive into what these buttons do and how to use them to your advantage.

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

The “Hold” button allows you to lock in a specific temperature, overriding any programmed schedules. When you hit “Hold,” your thermostat will maintain that set temperature without making any adjustments, no matter what your preset schedule might be.

Here’s when the “Hold” button comes in handy:

• When You’re Away: Going on vacation? The “Hold” function ensures your HVAC system won’t constantly cycle on and off, helping save energy while maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature.

• Special Occasions: Hosting a party or have guests over? Use “Hold” to keep the temperature just right for the duration of the event, without needing to adjust it every time.

• Unpredictable Weather: If the weather outside takes a sudden turn—like an unexpected heatwave or cold snap—the “Hold” button ensures your home stays comfortable while you wait for things to normalize.

Pro Tip: The “Hold” button can save you energy by keeping the temperature constant while you’re away, but it’s essential to turn it off when you return home to avoid unnecessary energy consumption.

How Does the “Run” Button Work?

The “Run” button essentially resets your thermostat to follow its regular schedule. When pressed, it ends any temporary adjustments made by the “Hold” function and lets your thermostat go back to the pre-set temperature changes you’ve programmed.

Here’s when you should use the “Run” button:

• Everyday Use: If you follow a regular routine, like having cooler temperatures during the day and warmer temperatures in the evening, “Run” ensures your thermostat sticks to that schedule without further manual changes.

• After Using “Hold”: Once you’re done with the temporary temperature change and want to return to your normal settings, hit “Run” to resume your preset schedule.

The “Run” button is essential for keeping your home’s climate consistent and comfortable every day.

When to Use the “Hold” Button

The “Hold” button is ideal when you need to keep the temperature at a constant level for an extended period. Here are a few scenarios where it can be especially useful:

1. Vacation: If you’re going away, the “Hold” button helps you avoid unnecessary HVAC activity while maintaining a comfortable temperature in your absence.

2. Special Events: If you’re hosting an event or have people over, using “Hold” ensures your home stays at a comfortable temperature without the need for constant adjustments.

3. Sudden Weather Changes: Whether it’s a heatwave or a cold snap, “Hold” ensures your home remains at a steady temperature until things return to normal.

When to Use the “Run” Button

The “Run” button should be pressed when you’re ready to get back to your usual routine. Here’s when it’s a good idea to use it:

1. Return to Regular Schedule: If you’ve used “Hold” for a temporary temperature adjustment, press “Run” to let your thermostat follow the programmed schedule again.

2. Daily Comfort: If you have a set routine for temperature preferences (e.g., cooler during the day and warmer in the evening), the “Run” button ensures your thermostat sticks to that schedule without manual intervention.

Can the “Hold” Button Help You Save Energy?

Yes! If used properly, the “Hold” button can reduce your energy consumption. For example, if you’re away on vacation, you can raise or lower the temperature by a few degrees to save energy. Instead of your HVAC system constantly cycling, “Hold” will maintain a more energy-efficient temperature while you’re gone.

But a Word of Caution: Don’t forget to return to your regular schedule after you come back home. Leaving the thermostat on “Hold” when you’re back could result in wasted energy as your HVAC system works harder to reach a comfortable temperature.

What is a Programmable Thermostat?

A programmable thermostat allows you to set temperature preferences for different times of the day or week. This gives you complete control over your home’s climate and helps reduce energy waste when no one is home.

The “Run” button is especially useful with a programmable thermostat, as it ensures that your thermostat follows the schedule you’ve set. The “Hold” button, on the other hand, is ideal for temporarily overriding your schedule.

How to Set Your Programmable Thermostat

Setting a programmable thermostat is straightforward. Here’s how to get started:

1. Access the Schedule Settings: Most thermostats have a “Program” or “Schedule” button. Press this to open the scheduling menu.

2. Set Your Desired Times and Temperatures: Choose the temperature you want for specific times of the day. For instance, you might set your home to 72°F from 6:00 AM to 8:00 AM, then 68°F during the day while you’re at work.

3. Repeat for Different Days: Some thermostats allow you to set different schedules for weekdays and weekends, which can be helpful for households with varying routines.

4. Save the Settings: Once you’ve programmed your desired temperatures, press “Save” or “Run” to activate your schedule.

What Happens if You Forget to Turn Off “Hold”?

If you leave the “Hold” setting on for too long, you could end up wasting energy. For example, if you forget to turn off “Hold” when you return home, your thermostat will maintain the temperature you set while you were away, which might not be optimal for when you’re back. This could cause your HVAC system to run longer than needed, increasing your energy usage and utility bills.

To avoid this, always remember to press “Run” when you return to your normal routine.

Conclusion

The “Hold” and “Run” buttons on your thermostat offer flexible control over your home’s temperature, making it easier to adapt to changing needs and save energy. Use “Hold” for temporary changes, like vacations or special events, and use “Run” to let your thermostat follow your pre-set schedule.

Want to take your thermostat to the next level? Consider upgrading to a smart thermostat! Smart thermostats offer additional features, including remote control, service alerts, and more efficient energy management.

Ready to upgrade? Contact Gleason Heating and Air Conditioning for a free estimate on a smart thermostat today, and start saving on your energy bills while enhancing your home’s comfort.