How To Turn Off A Programmable Thermostat

Programmable thermostats not only make our lives easier, but they also can help save a lot of money on heating and cooling bills. But, on occasion, the weather is so beautiful outside that you want to open up the windows to allow the fresh air in. So, in order to prevent the air conditioner or furnace from kicking on unnecessarily, you should turn off the programmable thermostat.

Step 1

Lift the cover on the programmable thermostat.

Step 2

Identify the different controls. You should see a switch for the blower, which allows for either automatic or manual operation. You'll also see the buttons used for setting the heating and cooling programs and a three-tiered switch that's labeled cooling, heating and off.

Step 3

Move the tab on the switch labeled cooling, heating and off to the off position. On most models, "off" is the center spot on the switch, but check the labeling on your model so you know which is which.

Step 4

Close the cover on the programmable thermostat. When you wish to resume using the programed heating or cooling regimen, simply lift the cover and push the tab over to the desired setting. The furnace or air conditioning unit will once again follow the settings of the programmable thermostat.