# Understanding Thermostat Concepts

To manage your thermostats effectively with Seam, it is important to understand the following concepts:

* [HVAC mode](/latest/capability-guides/thermostats/understanding-thermostat-concepts/hvac-mode.md)

  The `hvac_mode_setting` governs the operation of your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system to achieve and maintain your preferred temperature.
* [Set points](/latest/capability-guides/thermostats/understanding-thermostat-concepts/set-points.md)

  Temperature set points for a thermostat control the target temperatures that the thermostat activates the heating or cooling system to reach.


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