How-to: Use Your Programmable Thermostat

This thermostat is typical of most installed in new homes today, including those in Phoenix homes. I’ll review the operation and programming of this thermostat.

The blower fan can be set to either constantly run by switching to the “on” position or to only run when the system is providing heat or air conditioning in the “auto” position. By leaving it in the “on” position, you’ll promote better airflow throughout the home, but the blower fan will be running continuously. In the “auto” position, you’ll save energy since the fan only runs when the system is heating or cooling.

There are three modes for the thermostat’s operation:

1. Heat – for winter.

2. Off – to switch the system off entirely.

3. Cool – if you have an air conditioner installed.

The arrows on the thermostat are used to adjust the temperature, either up or down. The “Hold” button can be used to maintain any temperature you like permanently.

The thermostat can also be programmed to set four temperatures throughout each day for the 5 weekdays, as well as different temperatures for the weekend (Saturday and Sunday). For example, you can set a temperature for when you wake up, leave the house, return home, and go to bed.

To program the thermostat:

  • Press the “Set” button. You’ll start by setting the current time and date.
  • Set your first temperature point for weekdays (Monday through Friday). The time will flash, allowing you to set the time you wake up. Then, you’ll set the temperature you’d like for that time.
  • Press “Set” again to move to the next temperature setting, which may be when you leave the house. You can set a lower temperature if no one will be home during the day.
  • The next setting will be for when you return home, where you might want to warm the house up.
  • Finally, set the temperature for when you go to bed, perhaps cooling the house down for more comfortable sleep.
  • Once you’ve set all four points for Monday through Friday, you’ll do the same for Saturday and Sunday. After setting the four temperature points for the weekend, pressing “Set” one last time will complete the programming.

If the Hold icon is showing, it means the hold function has been activated, which maintains a specific temperature permanently. To run your programmed settings, press the “Run” button. The thermostat will now follow the scheduled program, showing which time period it’s in (for example, “Leave” when you’re away from home).

To toggle between holding a temperature permanently and running your programmed settings, use the Hold and Run buttons as needed.

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