How to Use the Honeywell Thermostat “Hold” and “Run” Settings Effectively

Jul 10, 2025 - 18:26
 4

Not sure what the Hold and Run buttons on your Honeywell thermostat actually do? Youre not alone. These simple functions can make a big difference in how comfortable your home feelsand how much energy your HVAC system uses. Whether you're trying to save energy or maintain a steady temperature, the Honeywell Set Hold Run feature gives you the flexibility you need.

Lets explore how to properly use the Hold and Run settings and when to apply them.

What Does the Honeywell Hold Button Do?

The Honeywell Hold button is used to maintain a fixed temperature, regardless of your preset schedule. Once you press Hold, the thermostat pauses its automatic programming and keeps your home at the temperature you selectuntil you manually change it or switch back to schedule mode.

Great Times to Use the Hold Setting:

  • When leaving for vacation and you want to maintain a steady, energy-efficient temperature.

  • During unpredictable weather when your normal schedule no longer feels comfortable.

  • If youre hosting guests and need to keep your home consistently cozy.

This setting helps avoid frequent system cycling and offers full manual control over your indoor environment.

How Does the Run Button Work?

The Run function cancels the Hold setting and returns your thermostat to its programmed schedule. This is an essential part of the Honeywell home thermostat Set Hold Run setup, helping your system switch between manual and automatic modes effortlessly.

When you press Run, your thermostat begins following your saved scheduleadjusting temperatures at different times of day and on different days of the week. This is ideal for homes with a predictable routine.

Using Honeywell Set Hold Run Correctly

If youre using a Honeywell thermostat, the Set Hold Run sequence is straightforward:

  1. Manually adjust the temperature to your desired setting.

  2. Press Hold to keep that temperature fixed.

  3. When ready to go back to your normal routine, press Run to resume the automatic schedule.

This function allows for short-term adjustments without permanently changing your programmed preferences.

Does the Hold Feature Save Energy?

It canwhen used the right way. The Honeywell Hold button is a great tool when you want to reduce energy usage during extended periods away from home.

For instance:

  • In summer, set a higher indoor temperature when youre out of town.

  • In winter, set it lower to reduce heating costs.

But be cautious: leaving the thermostat on Hold unnecessarily (especially at a comfort setting) can waste energy. Thats why its important to remember to run schedule on thermostat once youre back to your normal routine.

What Is a Programmable Thermostat?

A programmable thermostat allows you to schedule temperature changes based on your lifestyle. For example:

  • Warmer in the morning

  • Cooler while you're at work

  • Comfier again before bedtime

The Honeywell home thermostat Set Hold Run feature complements this by giving you full control when life doesnt go exactly according to plan.

How to Set and Run a Schedule on Your Thermostat

Heres how to program and run schedule on your thermostat:

  1. Press the Schedule or Program button on your Honeywell device.

  2. Set your desired temperature for different times (morning, daytime, evening, night).

  3. Customize the schedule for weekdays and weekends, if needed.

  4. Press Run to begin following your programmed settings.

This ensures maximum comfort and efficiencywithout constant manual adjustments.

What Happens If You Leave Hold On Too Long?

Leaving the Hold setting active too long could lead to unnecessary energy use and higher utility bills. If no ones home and the system keeps running at a set temperature, energy efficiency takes a hit.

The solution? Always remember to press Run once you're back into your normal routine. Better yet, consider a smart thermostat that can detect your habits and make the switch for you.

Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat with Gleason

Want even more control and convenience? Upgrade to a smart thermostat with Gleason Heating and Air Conditioning. Our advanced systems offer:

  • Remote scheduling and temperature control

  • Smart energy-saving features

  • Real-time maintenance alerts

Smart thermostats work seamlessly with the Honeywell Set Hold Run functionality, and they help you automate comfort while reducing energy waste.

Get a free quote today and see how a smart thermostat can upgrade your home comfort.

Final Thoughts

Knowing how to use the Honeywell Hold button and the Run setting can help you stay comfortable while managing your energy use effectively. The Honeywell Set Hold Run feature is simple, powerful, and incredibly useful for adapting your homes temperature to your changing needs.

Need help setting it up? Contact Gleason Heating and Air Conditioningyour local HVAC expertsfor assistance with programming, installation, or upgrading to a smart system that fits your lifestyle.

gleasonhvac HVAC Contractor in Wauconda, IL