How to Transition from Cooling to Heating

When summer winds down and fall begins, we enter a unique period where it’s not always hot, but not quite cold either. You may question whether it’s time to turn off the AC and switch to the furnace, or whether you need either at all.

The transition period is a great time to take stock of your HVAC system and set yourself up for a cozy winter. Here’s how to move from the cooling to heating season.

Get Your Furnace Tuned Up

The best way to prepare for the winter season is to have a professional HVAC technician inspect and test your furnace. They’ll be able to scout out any issues and fix them before they get worse. This not only prevents your system from breaking down during the peak winter season but it will also allow your system to run on peak efficiency, saving you money on utility bills. A furnace running on damaged parts will cost you more in repairs and energy.

During a tune-up, an HVAC technician will review every part of your system, checking for damaged parts, measuring efficiency, and changing out filters. This process extends the lifespan of your unit, prevents large problems, and increases efficiency. Plus, you’ll benefit from improved air quality after your furnace is cleaned and optimized.

Aim to have your furnace tuned up before winter starts, so you can take advantage of the results all season.

Prepare Your AC for Winter

You don’t have to do much to prepare your AC for vacation, but a few steps will ensure your unit remains safe and is ready when you need it in the spring.

Don’t completely cover your AC unit, even to protect it from snow. Even with a good cover, moisture can accumulate in the unit and create the perfect environment for mold. Instead, leave your AC out in the open, since it’s designed to take a beating from the elements.

The Middle Period

In fall, we often get weather that’s right in our comfort zone, and we don’t need to rely on our furnaces or air conditioners. This is a great opportunity to save on energy costs.

If it’s a bit on the warm side, open up your windows to get good airflow. Use fans to circulate the cool breeze and reduce humidity buildup in your home. You should also try to reduce your time using the oven and other heat-producing appliances. It’s never too late for a barbecue!

When it starts to cool down for winter, close up those windows and make sure they’re sealed tight. Any air loss will make it harder to keep your home warm. Open the curtains and let the sun’s natural heat warm your home. You can also layer up to stay comfortable!

Think About Replacement

BEFORE winter begins is the best time to consider installing a new furnace or heating unit. You don’t want to wake up one morning in January freezing because your unit broke down. Consult with your local HVAC technician before it gets consistently cold to see if it’s the right time to replace your unit.

You should be preparing to replace your unit if it’s over 12 years old. Plus, if your previous winter was uncomfortable due to furnace issues or frequent repairs, replacing may be the right choice.

Here for You All Winter

At Vander Hyde Services, we know how important heating is for Grand Rapids homeowners. That’s why we provide comprehensive service 24/7. Contact us today at (616) 319-2125 for more information.