Quick Answer
The "Hold" button on your thermostat temporarily overrides your programmed schedule. When you press Hold after adjusting the temperature, it keeps that setting until you cancel it—instead of reverting to your next scheduled temperature. "Permanent Hold" keeps the temperature indefinitely, while "Temporary Hold" lasts until the next scheduled change. Use Hold when you need to deviate from your schedule without reprogramming it.
If you've ever adjusted your thermostat only to have it change back an hour later, you've experienced the frustration that the Hold button solves. Understanding this simple feature can save you from constantly fighting with your thermostat.
What Does "Hold" Actually Do?
Programmable and smart thermostats follow a schedule—cooling to 76°F while you're at work, dropping to 72°F when you get home, etc. When you manually change the temperature, the thermostat treats it as a temporary adjustment and reverts to the schedule at the next programmed time.
The Hold button tells your thermostat: "Keep this temperature, ignore the schedule." It's an override that prevents automatic changes until you release it.
Simple Analogy
Temporary Hold vs. Permanent Hold
Most programmable thermostats offer two types of hold:
Temporary Hold
Keeps your manual temperature setting until the next scheduled change, then automatically returns to the program. Use this when you need a short-term adjustment—staying up late, working from home for part of a day, etc.
Permanent Hold (or "Hold Until")
Keeps your manual temperature setting indefinitely, until you manually cancel it. Use this for longer deviations—vacation, having guests stay, seasonal changes to your routine.
| Feature | Temporary Hold | Permanent Hold |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | Until next scheduled change | Until manually cancelled |
| Best For | Short deviations (hours) | Long deviations (days/weeks) |
| Schedule | Resumes automatically | Stays paused |
| Risk | None | Forgetting to cancel = higher bills |
How to Use Hold on Common Thermostats
Honeywell Thermostats
Using Hold on Honeywell
- 1
Adjust the temperature
Use the up/down arrows to set your desired temperature.
- 2
Press "Hold" button
Some models show "Hold" on screen, others have a dedicated button.
- 3
Select hold type (if prompted)
Choose Temporary or Permanent. Not all models offer both.
- 4
To cancel
Press "Run" or "Cancel" to return to your programmed schedule.
Nest Thermostats
Nest handles this differently. When you manually adjust temperature, it creates an automatic temporary hold that lasts until the next scheduled change, or until Nest's "Home/Away" feature detects you've left. You can set manual temperatures to hold longer in the Nest app settings.
Ecobee Thermostats
Ecobee offers "Hold" options when you adjust the temperature: hold until next transition, hold for 2/4 hours, or hold indefinitely. Select your preference on-screen or set a default in the app.
When to Use Hold (And When Not To)
Good Times to Use Hold
- Working from home unexpectedly
- Hosting guests who prefer different temperatures
- Sleeping in on weekends
- Sick days when you need extra comfort
- Short vacations (permanent hold at energy-saving temp)
- Seasonal routine changes before reprogramming
When NOT to Use Hold
- As a permanent solution—reprogram your schedule instead
- If you forget to cancel holds frequently
- Extended vacations (use Vacation mode if available)
The Forgotten Hold Problem
Hold vs. Other Thermostat Modes
| Mode | What It Does | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
| Hold | Overrides schedule with manual temp | Temporary schedule deviations |
| Run/Schedule | Follows programmed schedule | Normal daily operation |
| Away/Eco | Energy-saving temp (system-defined) | Leaving for several hours |
| Vacation | Energy-saving temp for extended period | Multi-day trips |
| Off | System doesn't heat or cool | Extended vacancy, mild weather |
Troubleshooting Hold Issues
Hold Won't Cancel
If pressing "Run" or "Cancel" doesn't release the hold, try: (1) Power cycle the thermostat by removing it from the wall plate for 30 seconds, (2) Check if there's a second hold active, (3) Verify you're not in Vacation mode instead of Hold.
Temperature Changes Even With Hold Active
Smart thermostats with learning features or occupancy sensors may override your hold if they detect you've left the house. Check your thermostat's "smart" settings if you need a true permanent hold.
No Hold Button on My Thermostat
Basic non-programmable thermostats don't have Hold—they just maintain whatever temperature you set. If you have a programmable thermostat without a visible Hold button, check your manual; some use "Override" or require holding the up/down buttons for 3 seconds.
Upgrading Your Thermostat
If you're frustrated with your current thermostat's hold options, upgrading to a smart thermostat gives you more control. Modern smart thermostats offer:
- App-based scheduling and hold control from anywhere
- Geofencing that automatically adjusts when you leave/arrive
- Flexible hold durations you can customize
- Energy reports showing the impact of holds on your bills
- Voice control through Alexa, Google Home, etc.
Smart thermostat installation typically costs $300-$500 including the device and professional installation. The energy savings often pay for the upgrade within 1-2 years. If you're in Indian Trail, Monroe, Matthews, or surrounding areas, our team can help you choose the right thermostat for your home and HVAC system.
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Written by
Kodiak HVAC Team
HVAC professional at Kodiak Heating & Cooling.