Skip to main content
How thermostat presets work

Explanation of custom and default thermostats presets work and what they're used for

Tim Parry avatar
Written by Tim Parry
Updated yesterday

Currently in Public Beta

The thermostats integration will be automatically applied to your account if you have the "Enable experimental features" setting toggled ON under Settings > Preferences.

Thermostats will be free to connect until February 1st.

What Are Temperature Presets?

Temperature presets are pre-configured HVAC settings and temperature set points that automate how your thermostats respond to reservations and vacancies. These presets ensure guest comfort, energy efficiency, and easy customization for properties with different climate requirements.

By default, we provide three presets that are always on and syncing to your reservations:

  • Occupied:

    • For guest stays, ensuring optimal comfort.

    • Activates 2 hours before check-in to ensure a comfortable temperature for guests.

  • Unoccupied:

    • For short vacancies, balancing readiness and energy savings.

    • Activates at check-out to conserve energy while keeping the property ready for quick reactivation.

  • Long-Term Unoccupied:

    • For extended vacancies, maximizing energy efficiency.

    • Activates at check-out if there is more than a 2-week gap to your next reservation.

    • Transitions to Unoccupied Mode 2 days before the next reservation for gradual, efficient temperature changes.

When a new thermostat is connected, it will automatically scope to these default presets. You can adjust the HVAC settings and set points for these presets at any time.

Adding New Presets

If you have properties with unique temperature needs, for example, a property with house plants that needs to stay warmer while unoccupied, you can create custom presets.

How to Add a New Preset:

  1. Select ‘Add Preset’: Start by clicking the Add Preset button on the 'Thermostat Preset' page

  2. Name Your Preset: Choose a name that reflects its purpose (e.g., "Cold Climate Unoccupied").

  3. Select HVAC Settings: Define the HVAC mode (Heat, Cool, Heat-Cool, or Off), set points for heating and cooling, and fan mode. You can scope thermostats with different HVAC modes to the same preset. For example a heat-only thermostat will still function correctly if scoped to a preset with a heat-cool HVAC mode.

  4. Assign a Preset Type: Specify whether the preset applies to Occupied, Unoccupied, or Long-Term Unoccupied modes. This ensures the correct automation logic is applied (e.g., switching to the preset 2 hours before check-in or immediately after check-out).

  5. Scope to Thermostats: Select which thermostats this preset should apply to. Only those scoped to the preset will follow its settings.

Scoping Rules for Presets

To ensure proper automation, every thermostat will always be scoped to all three preset types: Occupied, Unoccupied, and Long-Term Unoccupied.

  • When You Add a New Preset:

    • The thermostat will automatically unscope from the corresponding default preset and scope to the new custom preset.

    • Example: If you create a custom Unoccupied preset, thermostats scoped to it will no longer use the default Unoccupied preset.

  • When You Remove or Disable a Custom Preset:

    • If a thermostat is unscope from, or a custom preset is deleted or turned off, it will automatically revert to the default preset for that type.

    • This ensures seamless automation continues without gaps in temperature management.

Default Presets vs. Custom Presets

  • Default Presets:

    • Automatically apply to all connected thermostats unless overridden by a custom preset.

    • Always turned on and automating.

    • HVAC settings and temperature set points can be adjusted to suit your needs.

  • Custom Presets:

    • Allow for exceptions or specific configurations for unique properties.

    • Can be added, edited, or removed as needed.

    • Replace the default preset when a thermostat is scoped to them.

How to Get Started with Temperature Presets

  1. Adjust Default Presets: Modify the HVAC settings and set points of the default presets if needed.

  2. Create Custom Presets: Add new presets for properties with unique requirements.

  3. Scope to Devices: Assign custom presets to specific thermostats for tailored automation.

Did this answer your question?