When Should You Switch From AC to Heat?

 

Fall time in Chicago means temperatures that can fluctuate greatly. The sudden swing in temperatures can make it challenging to know when to turn your heat on, because it may be warm the next day.

Knowing when to switch from AC to heat can help extend the life of your HVAC system and keep your home comfortable.

Know the Right Temperature Threshold

A good rule of thumb for making the switch is when daily highs consistently stay below about 65°F for several days in a row. That’s usually the sweet spot in terms of when it makes sense to move from cooling to heating.

Of course, your comfort is key, but waiting until the temperatures are consistent for a few days will put less strain on your system. 

Avoid Frequent Switching Between Cooling and Heating

With the unpredictable weather this time of year, it may be tempting to turn the heat on one day and switch back to AC the next when the temperatures rise. However, doing so can shorten the lifespan of your HVAC because of the effort needed to switch between the two. 

For days when the outside temperature makes the indoors uncomfortable, try turning on your ceiling fans or opening your windows to create a more comfortable environment. You can also adjust your thermostat by a few degrees. 

Consider Your Indoor Comfort and Health

The temperature is only one factor when deciding when to turn your heat on. The humidity in your home plays a crucial role in maintaining indoor comfort and overall health. Running your AC too late into the fall can strip too much moisture from the air, leaving your home overly dry.

Dry air can lead to irritated sinuses, itchy skin, and even trigger seasonal allergies. Switching to heat at the right time helps balance indoor humidity while keeping your home cozy.

Maintaining a consistent indoor temperature also helps avoid the stress of sudden temperature changes, which can leave you more vulnerable to colds and congestion.

How to Maximize Efficiency When Transitioning From AC To Heat

The milder weather in the fall means you can adjust your thermostat less. If you’re still running your air conditioner, keeping the temperature in your home around 75°F can help you stay comfortable while also saving you money on your energy bills. When you finally do turn the heat on, setting the thermostat to around 68°F, especially at night not only keeps your home cozy but helps you sleep better. 

Other tips for when the temperatures start to drop:

• Layer warm clothes when indoors
• Swap your bedding for a warmer option
• Close curtains at night to hold in heat
• Take advantage of sunny days to naturally warm your home

How Smart Thermostats Can Help

Installing a smart thermostat can be especially helpful during Chicagoland’s unpredictable fall weather. It takes the guesswork out of when to switch between heating and cooling by automatically adjusting based on outdoor temperatures and your daily routine. This means fewer manual adjustments, resulting in maximum efficiency and lower energy costs.

What to Do If Your HVAC System Struggles During Transition

If you notice that your system is having trouble switching from cooling to heating, it’s essential to have your HVAC system checked. There may be simple fixes, such as changing your air filter, checking for blocked vents, and double-checking your thermostat settings. However, if that doesn’t resolve your issue or you’re dealing with more serious issues like short-cycling, then it might be time to schedule a repair or tune-up appointment.

Schedule a Fall HVAC Tune-Up Before You Switch

Before you flip your system from cooling to heating, it’s a good idea to schedule a seasonal HVAC tune-up. A professional inspection ensures your furnace or heating system is safe, efficient, and ready to handle the cold months ahead. The technician can also inspect your air conditioner and address any wear and tear from summer, so you’re not caught off guard next year when you switch back to using your AC during the summer. 

Ready to Make the Switch?

The key to knowing when to turn your AC off in the fall is to pay attention to the weather and your comfort. Additionally, it’s essential to ensure your system is in good condition and transitions smoothly from cooling to heating without any issues. 

Thornton Heating is here to help with expert tune-ups and repairs that will keep your home comfortable and make the transition from air conditioning to heating easier.