How to Transition Your HVAC System from Cooling to Heating
Summer is winding down, and fall is just around the corner! As the mornings and evenings start to feel crisp, it’s a good time to start thinking about shifting from cooling your home to heating it.
While it might seem as simple as flipping your system setting from cool to heat, it’s important to take a few extra steps to prevent breakdowns and to optimize your comfort and energy efficiency. After working hard all summer to cool your home, your system deserves some extra TLC!
Heating Season Prep Checklist:
Check and change your filters: It’s best to check your filters every three months for visible signs of buildup and discoloration, but let this be your sign to go ahead and check them now! You might be surprised how dirty filters get in a couple of months. Before switching your system over to heat, give it a fresh start with a new filter.
Inspect and clean your ductwork: Your ductwork is another spot where dust and allergens can accumulate. Take a peek and clean off the summer buildup before making the switch.
Check your outdoor units: Your outdoor unit bears the brunt of summer mowing season, so it's helpful to periodically check/clean it to ensure debris isn’t building up and blocking your airflow. Rake leaves and grass away to keep the area clear!
Test your thermostat: It’s a good idea to briefly turn your thermostat to “heat” mode before you actually need the heat to ensure that everything is working properly. You can let it run through a cycle to check that everything is shipshape.
Schedule a service check with an HVAC professional: It’s also a great idea to give a professional HVAC technician the chance to check your system in the lead-up to the heating season. Technicians do a thorough check of the electrical components, airflow, burners, and heat exchanger, as well as checking safety controls like limit switches. Getting a tech’s expertise can help prevent major safety issues like carbon monoxide leaks. As a bonus, an HVAC expert can help you adjust your thermostat settings for optimal energy efficiency and savings!
As you work through your heating season prep checklist, you might run into some of these common issues:
Strange smells and/or noises when turning on the heat
Uneven heating
Short-cycling (when your HVAC system turns on and off too frequently, without completing a full cycle)
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s time to call an HVAC professional!
Even if there seem to be no problems with your heating system, it pays to be prepared! By starting early, you’ll avoid the cold-weather rush. Dropping temperatures can prompt a wave of system breakdowns, booking up your local HVAC contractor’s schedule. As someone who prepped early, you can stay warm with the peace of mind that your system is ready to keep your family warm during the cooler months!
In need of a local HVAC partner to help keep your system running at peak performance? Give us a call at 434-218-4450 or book an appointment online today!
