If you’ve ever wondered how to make the most of your thermostat, you’re not alone. Many homeowners are unsure about the functions of the "Hold" and "Run" buttons. These settings play a crucial role in optimizing your heating and cooling system, helping you save energy. Let’s dive into how these buttons work.What Does "Hold" Mean on a Thermostat? The "Hold" button allows you to maintain a specific temperature, overriding your thermostat's programmed schedule. This feature is useful when you need a consistent temperature for an extended period.For instance, if you’re going on vacation and want to keep your home at a certain temperature, you can press "Hold." This prevents the HVAC system from cycling unnecessarily, saving energy and potentially lowering your utility bill.The "Hold" feature is also useful when hosting guests or special events, ensuring that the temperature remains comfortable without needing to adjust it throughout the day.How Does the "Run" Button Work? The "Run" button does the opposite of "Hold." It resumes your thermostat's pre-programmed schedule, adjusting temperatures at the times you've set. Most programmable thermostats allow you to set different temperatures for various times of the day or week.By pressing "Run," the thermostat will follow the temperature schedule you’ve created. This is ideal for everyday use when you want your home to stay at a comfortable temperature without having to adjust the thermostat manually.When Should You Use the "Hold" Button? Use the "Hold" button when you need to maintain a steady temperature for a prolonged period. Here are a few scenarios where it's particularly helpful:Vacation: Set the thermostat to a fixed temperature while you're away to avoid unnecessary temperature changes.Extreme Weather: During a sudden heatwave or cold snap, the "Hold" button helps keep your home at a comfortable temperature until conditions return to normal.Special Occasions: Hosting a party or having guests over? Use "Hold" to maintain a consistent, comfortable temperature throughout the event.When Should You Use the "Run" Button? The "Run" button is ideal when you're ready to go back to your thermostat's pre-set schedule. Here’s when it makes sense to press "Run":Daily Routine: If your household follows a regular schedule, like being away during the day and home in the evenings, the "Run" button will ensure the thermostat follows the programmed temperature changes.After Using "Hold": Once you’re done with a temporary temperature adjustment, press "Run" to return to your normal schedule.Can Using the "Hold" Button Save Energy? When used correctly, the "Hold" button can help conserve energy. By keeping your thermostat at a steady temperature while you’re away, you reduce the workload on your HVAC system, which can lower your energy consumption.For example, if you’re away for a few days, setting the temperature to be higher in the summer or lower in the winter can prevent the HVAC system from running constantly to maintain a comfortable temperature in an empty home. This leads to energy savings and reduces the wear and tear on your system.However, leaving the "Hold" button on for too long can lead to higher energy usage. If you forget to turn it off when you return home, your HVAC system might need to work harder to bring the temperature back to your preferred setting, which could increase energy costs.What Is a Programmable Thermostat? A programmable thermostat lets you set different temperatures for specific times or days. This allows your system to automatically adjust based on your routine. For example, you can set it cooler at night and warmer in the morning.With a programmable thermostat, the "Run" button is essential to ensure the system follows the settings you've created. If you encounter issues with your Honeywell thermostat, like a blank screen, check the batteries or reset it to restore functionality. The "Hold" button offers flexibility when you need temporary changes to your settings.How to Set a Programmable Thermostat: Setting a programmable thermostat is easy. Here’s how to do it:Access the Schedule Settings: Look for a button labeled "Program" or "Schedule" to enter the settings menu.Set Time and Temperature: Choose the temperature you want for specific times of the day, such as 72°F from 6:00 AM to 8:00 AM and 68°F while at work.Customize for Different Days: Some thermostats allow different settings for weekdays and weekends. Make sure the schedule matches your daily routine.Save the Schedule: Once you’ve entered all your settings, press "Save" or "Run" to activate your schedule.What Happens If You Forget to Turn Off "Hold"? If you forget to turn off the "Hold" setting, it can lead to unnecessary energy usage. For example, if you leave it on while you’re at work, your home will remain at the same temperature all day, even when no one is there. This can result in higher energy costs and waste energy.To avoid this, always press the "Run" button when you return to your normal schedule. This ensures the thermostat switches back to your energy-efficient settings.Conclusion Understanding how to use the "Hold" and "Run" buttons on your thermostat can significantly improve both your comfort and energy savings. Use "Hold" for temporary changes, such as vacations or special events, and "Run" to maintain your regular temperature schedule. By managing your thermostat effectively, you can maintain the ideal temperature in your home while controlling your energy bills.If you're looking for even more convenience, consider upgrading to a smart thermostat from Gleason Heating and Air Conditioning. These smart devices allow you to adjust settings remotely and receive service alerts directly to your phone. Contact us today for a free estimate!If you're searching for “HVAC companies near me,” your search ends here! Gleason Heating and Air Conditioning is a trusted contractor in Wauconda, IL, offering top-rated heating, cooling, plumbing, and electrical services. We provide same-day service in Wauconda and the Northern Chicago Suburbs, ensuring complete customer satisfaction.https://www.callgleason.com/how-to-use-the-hold-and-run-thermostat-buttons