Free template · updated November 3, 2026

Thermostat instructions for guests (template)

Smart and programmable thermostats are built for owners, not guests. A guest changes the temperature, the schedule changes it back an hour later, and they message you saying the heat is broken.

This template explains how to switch between heat and cool, how to make a change stick (hold or override) and what's off limits, like the schedule and settings. Fill in your model's buttons or app steps and add a photo of the screen.

The template

Replace anything in [brackets] with your own details.

Where it is

The thermostat is at [Thermostat location]. [Second thermostat, e.g. upstairs on the landing, controls the bedrooms].

Heat or cool

Press [Mode button] to choose Heat, Cool or Off. [Auto: how it works, or "please don't use Auto"].
The fan setting is [Auto, best left as is].

Changing the temperature

Use the up and down arrows [or turn the dial].
We suggest [20–22°C / 68–72°F] for heat and [23–25°C / 74–77°F] for cooling.
Changes last until [the next scheduled change / you change it again]. To keep your setting for your whole stay, press [Hold button or steps].
[Limits, e.g. it won't go above 24°C (75°F) for heat or below 20°C (68°F) for cooling].

Good to know

It takes a while for the house to warm up or cool down. Turning it much higher or lower won't speed it up.
Please keep windows and doors closed while heat or cooling is running.
Please leave the schedule and settings menus as they are. If anything's not right, just let us know.
[App or voice control: e.g. guests don't need the app; use the screen].

When you go out

You're welcome to turn it down a few degrees.

When you leave

Please set it to [Checkout setting, e.g. 16°C / 60°F heat or Off for cooling].
[Or: the thermostat goes back to its away setting on its own after checkout].

If something goes wrong

Blank screen: [Battery change steps, or "text us"].
The house isn't warming or cooling after an hour: check the mode, then text [Host name] at [Host phone].

Tips

Put a short 'hold' explanation front and centre; it solves most 'heat keeps changing' messages.
Set minimum and maximum limits if your thermostat supports them, and tell guests what they are.
Lock the settings menus where possible so guests can't change schedules by accident.
Use an away schedule that starts after checkout so you don't need guests to remember.
Keep spare batteries for battery-powered thermostats.

Put it on one guest page instead of a binder

Keegix turns your welcome book into one link and a QR sign by the door. Upload the binder you already have and AI drafts the page in about a minute, or paste this template in. Free forever for one property.

Upload my binder, free See a sample guest page

Questions

Can I lock my rental's thermostat?

Many smart thermostats let you lock settings or set a temperature range. Tell guests the range in the house manual so they're not surprised.

Why does my thermostat keep changing temperature?

It's following its schedule. Guests can use the hold or override button so their setting stays.

What temperature should an Airbnb be at checkout?

Many hosts ask for a low heat setting in winter, around 15–16°C (59–60°F), and cooling off in summer. Turning heat or AC down at checkout is an allowed ask.

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https://keegix.com/house-manual/thermostat/