How to Set Your Nest Thermostat to Hold Temperature?

Posted by: Mas Broto
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How to Set Your Nest Thermostat to Hold Temperature?

Setting your Nest Thermostat to “hold temperature” means you want it to maintain a constant temperature instead of following the preset schedule. While Nest doesn’t have a traditional “hold” button like older thermostats, it does allow manual temperature holds in a few easy steps.

There are two types of holds on a Nest Thermostat:

  1. Temporary Hold – Lasts until the next scheduled change
  2. Permanent Hold – Stays until you manually cancel it

Here’s how to do it:

For Nest Learning Thermostat

Using the Thermostat:

  1. Press the thermostat ring to open the Quick View menu.
  2. Turn the ring to highlight the temperature and press to select it.
  3. Adjust the temperature to your desired level.
  4. Select “Hold Temperature.”
  5. Choose how long you want to hold the temperature:
    • None” (until you manually change it),
    • or set a specific time duration (e.g., 2 hours, until a set time, etc.).

Using the Nest App:

  1. Open the Google Home or Nest app.
  2. Tap on your thermostat.
  3. Tap the temperature to adjust it.
  4. Select “Hold temperature” and choose duration.

For Nest Thermostat (the newer 2020 model with touch bar)

  1. Tap the touch bar on the right side of the thermostat.
  2. Scroll to “Hold” and tap.
  3. Choose a preset or custom temperature.
  4. Set how long you want to hold the temperature.
  5. Tap again to confirm.

To Cancel the Hold

  • On the thermostat: Press the ring → turn to “Hold” → choose “End hold.”
  • In the app: Tap the thermostat → Tap “Hold” → Tap “Cancel.”

Your Nest will now return to your programmed routine.

Hold temperature on Nest thermostat

If your thermostat follows Eco Mode or Home/Away Assist, it may override your hold. You can disable those features temporarily under Settings > Nest Sense.

Want a permanent hold? Disable the schedule entirely and manually set the temp.


What Does “Hold Temperature” Mean?

When you set a temperature hold, your Nest Thermostat will:

  • Ignore your programmed schedule
  • Maintain your chosen temperature indefinitely (or until you cancel it)
  • Not auto-adjust based on your usual routines

This is useful if:

  • You’re working from home and want a constant temp
  • You have guests staying over
  • Your schedule changes unexpectedly

Troubleshooting Common Issues

1. Nest Won’t Hold Temperature

  • Check Auto-Schedule: If Auto-Schedule is on, the Nest may override your hold.
    • Fix: Turn off Auto-Schedule in Settings > Nest Sense.
  • Wi-Fi Issues: A weak connection can disrupt commands.
    • Fix: Restart your router or reconnect the thermostat.

2. Hold Option Missing in the App

  • Update the App: Ensure you’re using the latest Nest app version.
  • Check Thermostat Mode: Some modes (like “Eco”) restrict holds.

3. Temperature Keeps Resetting

  • Home/Away Assist may be interfering.
    • Fix: Disable it in Settings > Home/Away Assist.

Setting a temperature hold on your Nest Thermostat is simple once you know where the options are. Whether you need a short-term adjustment or a longer override, this guide ensures you stay in control of your home’s comfort.

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Mas Broto

Have been in the heating and air conditioning (HVAC) industry for over 20 years. He is person that will grow and thrive to learn more about the HVAC industry throughout his career. Mas Broto is also a blogger, who's dedicated to bringing you the best knowledge to get ahead in the game of life.

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