how to turn off auxiliary heat

3 min read 07-02-2025

Meta Description: Learn how to disable your auxiliary heat system for better energy efficiency and cost savings. This comprehensive guide covers various furnace types and provides troubleshooting tips for common issues. We'll walk you through the steps to turn off auxiliary heat on your thermostat and explore potential causes if it's still activating. Save money and improve your home's comfort with this easy-to-follow guide.

Understanding Auxiliary Heat

Auxiliary heat, often electric, supplements your primary heating system (usually a furnace or heat pump) during periods of high demand or low temperatures. While it provides a quick boost of warmth, it's generally more expensive to operate than your main heating source. Knowing how to turn it off when unnecessary can significantly reduce your energy bills.

Why Turn Off Auxiliary Heat?

Cost Savings: Auxiliary heat is typically the most expensive heating method. Disabling it when not needed translates directly into lower energy bills.
Improved Efficiency: Relying solely on your primary heating system, when possible, improves the overall efficiency of your home heating.
Reduced Wear and Tear: Less frequent use of the auxiliary heater extends its lifespan, saving you on potential repair or replacement costs.

How to Turn Off Auxiliary Heat on Your Thermostat

The method for disabling auxiliary heat varies slightly depending on your thermostat model. However, the general process involves accessing your thermostat's settings.

Step-by-Step Instructions (General):

Locate Your Thermostat: Find your programmable thermostat, usually wall-mounted near a main living area.
Access the Menu: Press the "Menu" or "Settings" button on your thermostat. The exact button label varies by brand.
Navigate to Heating Settings: Use the arrow buttons to scroll through the menu until you find "Heating," "System," or a similar option.
Find Auxiliary Heat Setting: Look for options like "Auxiliary Heat," "Electric Heat," "Emergency Heat," or "Backup Heat."
Disable Auxiliary Heat: This usually involves selecting "Off," "Disable," or a similar setting. Consult your thermostat's manual if you are unsure.
Save Changes: Confirm your changes and save the new settings. Your thermostat should now prioritize your primary heating source.

Note: Some thermostats may not have a dedicated "Auxiliary Heat" setting. In such cases, adjusting the heating system's mode or temperature may indirectly reduce the reliance on auxiliary heat.

Troubleshooting: Auxiliary Heat Still Activating

If your auxiliary heat continues to engage despite disabling it in the settings, several factors may be at play:

1. Temperature Setting Too Low:

Your primary heating system may be struggling to meet the set temperature, leading the thermostat to activate the auxiliary heat as a backup. Try raising the thermostat temperature slightly.

2. Thermostat Malfunction:

A faulty thermostat may be incorrectly reading the room temperature or failing to properly communicate with your heating system. Consider replacing your thermostat if you suspect this is the issue.

3. Furnace or Heat Pump Issues:

Problems with your furnace or heat pump, such as a clogged filter, frozen coils (heat pumps), or malfunctioning components, might force the auxiliary heat to kick in. Consult a qualified HVAC technician for diagnosis and repairs.

4. Extremely Cold Temperatures:

During exceptionally cold weather, even with a properly functioning system, auxiliary heat might be needed to maintain the desired temperature.

Different Thermostat Types and Auxiliary Heat

The process of turning off auxiliary heat may differ slightly depending on your thermostat type. Consult your thermostat's manual for specific instructions. Common types include:

Programmable Thermostats: Offer advanced scheduling and settings, often including options to manage auxiliary heat.
Smart Thermostats (e.g., Nest, Ecobee): Usually have app-based controls and may offer more granular control over your heating system.
Basic Thermostats: May offer limited control, often only allowing for temperature adjustments and potentially a setting for "heat" or "emergency heat."

When to Use Auxiliary Heat

While reducing reliance on auxiliary heat is generally beneficial, there are times when it's necessary:

Extremely Cold Weather: During unusually frigid temperatures, your primary heating system may need the extra boost to maintain comfort.
System Malfunction: If your primary heating system is malfunctioning, auxiliary heat provides backup warmth.
Sudden Temperature Drop: If the temperature drops unexpectedly, auxiliary heat can quickly warm your home.

Conclusion

Turning off your auxiliary heat is a simple yet effective way to save money and improve the efficiency of your home heating system. By following the steps outlined above and troubleshooting potential issues, you can optimize your energy consumption and create a more comfortable and cost-effective living environment. Remember to consult your thermostat's manual and, if necessary, contact a qualified HVAC technician for assistance.