Transitioning From Cooling to Heating: Fall HVAC Tips

When the weather turns cold and it looks like it’s going to stay that way for the remainder of the season, make sure your HVAC system is ready to go when you need it most. Here are some transition tips to follow and details on when you should reach out to the HVAC professionals for help.

Understanding Your HVAC System

Before you take the steps to transition your HVAC system from cooling to heating, you should make sure your heating system is fully functional. Consider if you’ve had any issues with the functioning of the system either during the prior cold weather season or when it was operating in cooling mode during the summer. If so, you should have these issues resolved before putting it into full operation for the fall and winter seasons. An HVAC professional can help you with any maintenance or repair services you may need.

Transition Tips

If everything is working well with your HVAC system, it’s time to start the transition process and get your heater ready for cold, frosty days. Here are some steps you and your HVAC professional can take to switch the system from cooling to heating:

  • Thermostat Adjustment: Adjust the temperature on the thermostat to reflect the upcoming changes in the weather. Decide what temperatures are most comfortable for your family and make the adjustments on the thermostat so your home will be cozy and warm.
  • Ensure Outdoor Unit is Clean and Unobstructed: Before running your heater, make sure the outdoor unit is clean and unobstructed so the system works well at all times.
  • Change/Check Air Filters: Air filters ensure the air is clean, so it’s important to check the air filters to make sure they aren’t dirty. If they have a lot of dust and dirt or you haven’t changed them recently, now’s the time to do so.
  • Identify Potential Air Leaks: Look for any air leaks within the system and have these repaired if there are any.
  • System Test: Perform a system test before using your heater regularly to ensure it’s ready for the cold weather season.
  • Heating System Check: Perform a full heating system check and, depending on your HVAC system, evaluate the working order of the furnace, boiler, ductless system, or heat pumps, including performing heat pump reversals, to make sure everything works well.

When to Contact a Professional

If you are well-versed in caring for your HVAC system, you may be able to perform some of the tasks mentioned above on your own. However, it may be a good idea for you to consult with an HVAC professional for some or all of the tasks needed to get your HVAC system ready for cold weather. If you need help preparing your heater for the frosty weather, contact Air Design for your heating maintenance and repair needs.

Contact Air Design for heating maintenance and repair help!