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How to use Hold and Run on Thermostat buttons

How to Use “Hold” and “Run” on Thermostat Buttons 
If you’ve ever looked at your thermostat and wondered what the “Hold” and “Run” buttons actually do, you’re not alone.
These settings play an important role in controlling your HVAC system’s schedule, and understanding them can help you stay comfortable while also saving on energy bills.
In this guide, we’ll explain what Hold and Run mean, when to use them, and how San Mateo homeowners can make the most of these features for year-round comfort.

5 Tips on Understanding Your Thermostat’s SchedulingMost modern thermostats — from basic programmable models to smart thermostats — allow you to set a temperature schedule based on your daily routine.
For example:

• Morning: 72°F when you wake up
• Daytime: 78°F when you’re at work
• Evening: 72°F when you return home
• Night: 70°F for sleeping

The Run and Hold functions control how your thermostat follows or overrides that schedule.

What Does “Run” Mean on Thermostat Button?When your thermostat is set to Run:

• It follows the programmed schedule you’ve set.
• Temperatures automatically change at pre-set times.
• It maximizes efficiency by reducing heating or cooling when you’re away or asleep.

When to use Run in San Mateo:

• If you have a predictable daily routine
• To reduce energy usage during work hours or vacations
• When using PG&E’s time-of-use rates to save money

What Does “Hold” Mean on Thermostat Button?When you press Hold:

• The thermostat ignores the programmed schedule.
• It maintains the temperature you set until you cancel Hold or switch back to Run.
• There are usually two types:
  1. Temporary Hold: Keeps the set temperature until the next scheduled change.
  2. Permanent Hold: Keeps the set temperature until you manually turn Hold off.

When to use Hold in San Mateo:

• During an unexpected heat wave or cold snap
• When working from home on a day you’d normally be away
• When guests are visiting and you want consistent comfort

Step by Step guide on How to Use Hold and Run Thermostat ButtonsStep-by-Step: Using Hold

1. Set your desired temperature.
2. Press the Hold button.
3. Choose between Temporary or Permanent Hold (if available).
4. The thermostat will now maintain that temperature without following the schedule.

Step-by-Step: Returning to Run

1. Press the Run button.
2. Your thermostat will resume following the pre-programmed schedule.

Example: San Mateo Summer ScenarioLet’s say it’s August in San Mateo and your schedule has the thermostat set to 78°F during the day.
A rare Bay Area heat wave pushes outdoor temps into the 90s. You’re working from home and need extra cooling.

• Normal schedule: Would keep your home warmer to save energy while you’re away.
• Solution: Use Hold to set your AC to 72°F for the day, then return to Run once the heat wave ends.

5 Pro Tips for Energy Savings with Hold and Run Thermostat Settings

1. Use Run for Most Days — Your programmed schedule is the most energy-efficient way to heat or cool your home.
2. Reserve Permanent Hold for Exceptions — Prolonged Hold can increase your energy bills if left on unnecessarily.
3. Leverage Temporary Hold — Perfect for short-term comfort adjustments without completely abandoning your schedule.
4. Combine with Smart Thermostat Features — Many smart thermostats let you adjust Hold remotely via an app.
5. Seasonal Adjustment — Update your schedule seasonally to reflect San Mateo’s mild winters and warm summers.

Common Mistakes Homeowners Make

• Leaving Permanent Hold On: Forgetting to switch back to Run can waste energy for days or weeks.
• Overcompensating with Extreme Settings: Setting your AC to 65°F in summer or heat to 80°F in winter won’t cool or heat faster — it just uses more energy.
• Not Updating Schedules: Life changes, so your thermostat schedule should too.

Thermostat Troubleshooting Tips  If Hold and Run aren’t working as expected:

• Check if your thermostat’s clock and date are correct.
• Replace thermostat batteries if it’s battery-powered.
• Make sure your thermostat is compatible with your HVAC system.
• If it’s unresponsive, a professional HVAC technician can check wiring and programming.

Why This Matters in San Mateo  Because our local climate swings between cool foggy mornings and sunny afternoons, having control over Hold and Run can:

• Improve comfort during sudden temperature changes.
• Lower PG&E bills by running your HVAC only when needed.
• Extend your system’s lifespan by reducing unnecessary runtime.

FAQs About Hold and Run Thermostat Buttons                                                                                                                  Q: Will using Hold cost more on my energy bill?
Yes, if used for long periods at extreme temperatures.
Q: Can I use Hold on a smart thermostat?
Absolutely — smart thermostats have Hold modes, often labeled as “Hold” or “Manual.”
Q: Is Temporary Hold better than Permanent Hold?
Temporary Hold is more energy-efficient because it automatically returns to your schedule.
Q: Does Hold work for both heating and cooling?
Yes — it applies to your current HVAC mode, whether heating or cooling.

Key Takeaway   The Hold and Run buttons are simple but powerful tools for controlling your home’s comfort and energy use.
In San Mateo’s variable coastal climate, knowing when and how to use them can save you money and keep your home at the perfect temperature.

Call to Action – Get the Most Out of Your Thermostat  Need help programming or upgrading your thermostat in San Mateo?
📞 Call Cloud Mechanical HVAC at (650) 910-1850 or Schedule a Service Online for expert thermostat setup, smart thermostat installation, and full HVAC system optimization.