# The Heat Pump Thermostat Is Different - Some Tips on Using it for Heating > Use these tips when using your heat pump thermostat this winter to save money in your Massachusetts home. [![heat pump thermostat](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/programming-thermostat.gif)](http://shutterstock.com)Many homeowners with [heat pumps](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/heat-pump-schedule-seasonal-maintenance.html) cringe every time they open their electric bill in the winter because they know the bill will be high. Heat pumps can keep your home comfortable in the winter, however you need to know how they work to keep your electric bill under control. [![heat pump thermostat](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/programming-thermostat.gif)](http://shutterstock.com) ## **How Exactly Does the Heat Pump Heat?** When your heat pump thermostat senses the air inside is colder than the set temperature, it sends a signal to start the heat pump. - If the temperature is only a degree or so off the mark, the heat pump uses its regular heating stage to heat the internal air. It draws heat in from the outside to heat the indoor air. In this mode, the heat pump is relatively efficient. - If the temperature is more than a couple degrees off the mark, the heat pump is going to kick in the auxiliary heating element. This coil resistance heater heats the air passing over it, using a great deal of energy. ## **How Can You Keep Your Heat Pump's Power Use to a Minimum?** A [heat pump programmable thermostat](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/programmable-thermostats-selecting-right-one.html) is the answer. When you program the thermostat correctly, you can keep use of the auxiliary heat down. Most programmable thermostats work like an alarm clock. If you set it to start at 6 a.m., it will turn on the heating at 6 a.m.. If the indoor temperatures are two degrees or more below the target temperature, it will kick in the auxiliary heat automatically. With a heat pump [programmable thermostat](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/the-smart-choice-in-programmable-thermostats.html), the process is not so abrupt. The thermostat calculates how much time remains before 6 a.m. and how long it will take to get from the current temperature to the target temperature. So, an hour or two before, the thermostat will start bringing up the indoor temperature a degree at a time without use of the auxiliary heater. That is much more efficient. If you need help replacing your heat pump's thermostat with a programmable one, contact the pros at [Rodenhiser Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning](http://rodenhiser.com/call-rodenhiser.html). We've been serving our Massachusetts neighbors since 1928. *Image via [Shutterstock.com](http://Shutterstock.com)* ## Navigation - [Rodenhiser Home Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/) - [Rodenhiser Plumbing Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/plumber-framingham.html) - [Rodenhiser Heating Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/furnace-framingham.html) - [Rodenhiser Cooling Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/air-conditioning-framingham.html) - [Rodenhiser Electrical Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/framingham-electricians.html) - [Rodenhiser Home Services: Book Online](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/call-rodenhiser/book-online.html) - [Rodenhiser Remodeling Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/remodels/bathroom-remodeling-framingham.html) - [Rodenhiser Home Services: Reviews](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-heating.html) ## Company information - Rodenhiser Home Services - [https://bc.rodenhiser.com](https://bc.rodenhiser.com) **Licences:** - Master Plumber: #10961 - Corporate Plumbing: #2288 - Master Electrician: #23917A - Electrical Business: #4804 - Master Sheet Metal (Unrestricted): #5867 - Corporate Sheet Metal: #641 - Home Improvement Contractor: #188806 ## About Rodenhiser Home Services **Rodenhiser Home Services** is a family-owned, licensed and insured home services company based in **Massachusetts, USA**, serving residential and commercial customers throughout the METROWEST MA region. Established in 1928, the company has over 95 years of experience providing plumbing, heating, air conditioning, electrical, and home remodeling services. Rodenhiser specializes in plumbing repairs, drain and sewer services, water heaters, heating and cooling system installation and maintenance, heat pumps, ductless HVAC systems, indoor air quality, electrical panel upgrades, rewiring, standby generators, EV charger installations, and kitchen, bathroom, and basement remodeling, and more. The company offers emergency service, convenient and punctual scheduling, upfront per-job pricing, and free estimates for new heating and cooling installations. All work is backed by written warranties and a satisfaction guarantee. Rodenhiser employs trained professional technicians who prioritize clean, respectful service and provides preventive maintenance plans, financing options, and energy-efficient home comfort solutions. Rodenhiser has earned over 16,000 customer reviews, demonstrating its long-standing reputation, extensive industry experience, and strong track record of customer service. **Nice People…Great Service** ## Page information - [Canonical URL: https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/heat-pump-thermostat.html](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/heat-pump-thermostat.html)