Thermostat Differential Calculator

Dial in stable warmth for tender seedlings. See start and stop temperatures for your gear. Save results as CSV or PDF with one click.

Tip
Enter setpoint and differential, then calculate.
You can also log runs and export them anytime.
Download CSV Clear log

Calculator

Suggested range updates after you calculate.
Common starting points: 1 to 3 °C.
Choose how your controller defines "differential".
Positive raises targets; negative lowers targets.
Reset Download CSV Clear log

Example data table

Sample greenhouse configurations showing typical setpoints and switch points.

Scenario Mode Units Setpoint Diff Interpretation Cut-in (ON) Cut-out (OFF)
Seedling bench, cool night Heating °C 22.0 2.0 One-sided 20.0 22.0
Tomato tunnel, sunny day Cooling °C 28.0 3.0 One-sided 28.0 25.0
Propagation mat, gentle swing Heating °F 75 4 Total band 73 77

Formula used

This calculator outputs two thresholds: cut-in (device turns ON) and cut-out (device turns OFF). The gap between them is the differential (hysteresis).

Mode Interpretation Cut-in (ON) Cut-out (OFF)
Heating One-sided Ton = S - D Toff = S
Cooling One-sided Ton = S Toff = S - D
Heating Total band Ton = S - D/2 Toff = S + D/2
Cooling Total band Ton = S + D/2 Toff = S - D/2

Where S is the effective setpoint (setpoint + offset) and D is the differential in the chosen units.

How to use this calculator

  1. Pick your units and control mode for the device.
  2. Enter a setpoint that matches your plant target.
  3. Enter a differential to limit short cycling.
  4. Select how your controller defines the differential.
  5. Optionally add a sensor offset and notes, then calculate.
  6. Use CSV/PDF exports to track seasonal adjustments.

Saved runs

Logged results are stored in your current browser session.

No saved runs yet. Enable "Log this run" and calculate to populate the table.

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Important Note: All the Calculators listed in this site are for educational purpose only and we do not guarentee the accuracy of results. Please do consult with other sources as well.