Make the Switch Between Cooling and Heating

Though the temperatures have still been warm and comfortable, with October approaching, it is hard not to think about the start of the heating season this year. You may have questions about what steps to take to get your home ready to switch between heating and cooling. Here are 4 of the most critical measures to ensure that your home is prepared to go this fall and winter!

Step 1

One of the most important things to do at the beginning of the heating season is to have your furnace inspected. This helps to make sure that everything is operating smoothly and safely. Also, an annual furnace inspection prolongs the unit’s life and increases efficiency. It is best to schedule a furnace inspection for a date before it gets too chilly, but don’t worry, if the temperatures drop-you can still turn on the furnace before the inspection.

Step 2

Once the temperatures drop, it is essential to turn the furnace on. To do that, look at your thermostat for a switch that says: HEAT COOL OFF. Flip the switch to the HEAT position. Digital thermostats may have a button or option on the digital screen rather than a switch. Please keep in mind that if you have steam heat or if you do not have air conditioning, your thermostat will not have this switch.

If the furnace does not turn on after this, look for a switch (it looks like a light switch) on the side of the furnace unit. Be sure that this switch is also switched to ON. If the furnace is not working after this, it is best to contact FLAME.

Step 3

The next step will be getting your humidifier ready. Many forced air systems come with built-in humidifiers, and it is essential to ensure they are cleaned for the season. This can be done independently, or you can contact a professional. At FLAME, we are happy to help with this.

Once the humidifier is clean, you can turn it on using the humidistat. The humidistat is generally located on the ductwork, but some newer heating and cooling systems have the humidistat situated right on the thermostat. With the humidistat, you can turn the humidifier on and set your preferred humidity level.

Step 4

Last but not least, summer may be over, but you shouldn’t forget your air conditioner! There isn’t much to do with the air conditioner except finding the electrical box located outside near the condenser unit. Pull the disconnect and flip the switch to OFF when you find it. This electrical box powers the heat for the oil in the condenser unit during the summer. It is not necessary during the winter, so you might as well save some energy by turning it off.

One thing you do not need to do with an air conditioner is put a cover on it this winter. This is because the air conditioner has moisture and condensation that needs to escape. A cover will not allow it to do so, which could cause moisture buildup.

These are the four significant steps when switching between cooling and heating. If you have any questions or would like to learn more, please feel free to contact FLAME!