Ecobee Thermostat - Change HVAC System Mode

Purpose

Use this procedure when a customer wants to change the operating mode of their Ecobee thermostat, including Heat, Cool, Auto, Aux, or Off.

Customer Symptoms

Customer wants to:

• Change thermostat mode
• Switch from Heat to Cool
• Turn on Auto mode
• Enable Cooling mode
• Enable Heating mode
• Use Auxiliary Heat
• Turn HVAC system off
• Adjust system operation through the thermostat or Ecobee app

Understanding HVAC System Modes

Available system modes depend on the customer's HVAC equipment configuration.

Auto (Heat/Cool)

Auto mode automatically switches between heating and cooling based on the configured temperature setpoints.

Cool

Cooling equipment operates when cooling is needed.

Heating equipment remains inactive.

Heat

Heating equipment operates when heating is needed.

Cooling equipment remains inactive.

Aux

Auxiliary Heat mode is available only on systems configured with a heat pump and auxiliary heating source.

In this mode, only auxiliary heat operates.

Off

Heating and cooling are disabled.

Fan operation may still occur depending on fan settings.

Change HVAC Mode on the Thermostat

1. Navigate to the Thermostat Home Screen.
2. Select System Mode.
3. Choose one of the available modes:
   • Auto
   • Cool
   • Heat
   • Aux
   • Off
4. Confirm the selection.

Change HVAC Mode in the Ecobee App

1. Open the Ecobee app.
2. Select the thermostat.
3. Open Settings.
4. Select System.
5. Select HVAC Mode.
6. Choose one of the available modes:
   • Auto
   • Cool
   • Heat
   • Aux
   • Off
7. Save changes.

Troubleshooting

Desired Mode Not Available

1. Verify the HVAC equipment supports that mode.
2. Review thermostat installation settings.
3. Check heat pump configuration if looking for Aux mode.
4. Restart the thermostat.

System Does Not Respond After Mode Change

1. Verify the thermostat is online.
2. Confirm temperature setpoints require heating or cooling.
3. Check HVAC equipment operation.
4. Verify wiring and installation settings.

Aux Mode Missing

1. Verify the system is configured as a heat pump.
2. Confirm auxiliary heat is installed.
3. Review equipment setup settings.

Expected Outcome

The customer successfully changes the HVAC operating mode and the Ecobee thermostat controls heating and cooling equipment according to the selected mode.