A programmable thermostat can be used with a heat pump. However, large setbacks like the ones preprogrammed on a unit are not suggested. It’s best to create a custom schedule based on when you wake up, go to work, and go to bed. Only decrease the indoor temperature by 3 to 4 degrees during these events in the winter and increase in the summer.
This is most important for homes that use all electric heat pumps to minimize the use of expensive electric heat which helps our home get back to temperature quickly after a setback. Homes with propane and oil can also see significant savings by using the method above.