The spring season often leads to unpredictable weather patterns that can make it difficult for homeowners to keep a comfortable home interior for them and their loved ones.
While changing between your home's heating system and AC system throughout the day may appear to solve your problem, it can actually cause more harm than good when it's not done correctly.
To learn more about how you can protect your HVAC equipment when switching between the heat and cool modes, keep reading!
Will my HVAC system suffer damage by switching?
The short answer is yes you can cause unnecessary stress on your HVAC system by switching between your heater and cooler when not done correctly. Attempting to make drastic changes in the ambient air temp indoors can cause your appliance to short cycle and deteriorate quickly.
The best thing you can do for your home's heating and cooling system is to make gradually changes in the temp to ensure the appliance has enough time to shut down fully and restart again without interrupting it's existing heating or cooling cycle.
How can I prevent my HVAC system from getting damaged?
To prevent your HVAC system from experiencing damage throughout the year and when you switch from your AC to your heater, we recommend booking a yearly maintenance with a professional HVAC technician. They will be able to conduct a complete and thorough inspect of your appliance and ensure that everything is operating as it should be.
Beyond a yearly maintenance appointment, knowing how to use your HVAC unit correctly and how to switch between cold and warm air (and vice versa) will also prevent early deterioration of your system and repairs. That said, if you notice something is wrong with your appliance, make sure to book a professional repair appointment as soon as possible.
How can one go from heat to air conditioning?
If you want to switch back and forth between your heater and air conditioner and vice versa without experiencing higher energy bills and unnecessary strain on your appliance, here is what you need to do to:
1. Program your thermostat to it's "auto" mode
When your thermostat is in the "on" position, it will continue to run continuously even after the target ambient temperature has been reached, which can lead to significant energy waste, an expensive energy bill, and system wear and tear. Set your thermostat to its "auto" mode instead. By doing this, you can make sure that your HVAC system shuts off after the programmed temperature is attained.
2. Set your desired temperature
Now, select a temperature on your thermostat that is a few degrees higher or lower than the current ambient temperature reading. We suggest programming it to 24 degrees Celsius in the summertime, and 20 in the winter before changing the temperature gradually to what you want.
3. Wait a couple minutes
Once the thermostat has been programmed, wait for the HVAC system to finish its heating or cooling cycle. This will prevent the appliance from short cycling and give the system enough time to switch to its new cycle.
4. Set your thermostat again and avoid short cycling
After five minutes has passed, you can switch your thermostat back on a programming it a few degrees higher or lower than the current reading on your device.
Should I follow the HVAC system's entire cycle?
Yes, we recommend homeowners wait for their HVAC system's current cycle to finish before programming your thermostat to your desired temperature. Making drastic temperature changes to your HVAC unit without waiting for the current cycle to finish will cause extra strain on the equipment.
Additionally, setting a drastic temperature change on your thermostat isn't going to make the indoor temperature change any faster. It's best to give your system time to cool off and shut off in order to prevent energy waste and damage. Remember, minor adjustments are key.
Is it bad to alternate from AC to heat?
Switching back and forth between heat and cooling isn't necessarily a "bad" thing to do unless you're doing it the wrong way. If you're switching between your heater and AC multiple times a day and not allowing the appliance to complete its next cycle in between, making drastic temperature changes, and keep your thermostat set to it's "on" setting, then yes, it can be bad for your system because cause the appliance to short cycle and lead to significant strain on its internal parts.
Over time, this added stress can lead to costly repairs, more energy use, and a premature breakdown of your AC or other system. This is why, homeowners should follow the steps we've listed above to ensure they can properly maintain their indoor comfort, energy savings, and prevent damage to their HVAC equipment.
Maintain Optimal Indoor Comfort Levels Year Round with Haven Home!
Haven Home Heating and Air Conditioning is your one-stop-shop for HVAC system services and solutions.
Our technicians are available for repair and maintenance appointments 24/7/365 days a year including after-hours, weekends, and holidays at no extra cost. Same day emergency repairs are also available year round.
If you're in the market for a new heating and cooling appliance, book a consultation with our team to learn more about the different options we offer including our discounts and financing options! All consultations include a complimentary estimate as well!
Haven Home Heating and Air is pleased to partner with homeowners living throughout Kingston, Belleville, Brockville, Odessa, Prince Edward County, Wolfe Island, Westport, Battersea, and the surrounding communities!
Book your appointment with us over the phone or use our online booking form!
