With fall in full swing, it’s about time to turn on your heat and get cozy. Depending on your climate, you might’ve already cranked on your heating system to combat dropping temperatures. However, if you live somewhere with more temperate weather, you might be wondering the best time to turn on your heat this fall.
At ACS, we offer high-quality heating services and exclusive industry insight to help you make informed decisions about HVAC systems. Our HVAC-certified technicians offer premium installation, repairs, and system replacements for all models of heating equipment. If you have questions about switching on the heat this season, we’re here to help. Below, we’ll answer all your important questions about turning on your heat.
In this article, our HVAC experts discuss what you expect when turning on your heat this fall. They will explore the following topics:
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- The best time to turn on your heat
- The steps you should take before turning on your heat
- The maximum to wait before turning on your heat
When Should I Turn on My Heat in the Fall?
Ultimately, turning on your heat entirely depends on your temperature preferences. If you tend to run cooler, you might turn on your heat earlier than the average household. However, if you get hot easily, you might push off turning on your heat until later in the season. The direct answer to this question comes from the World Health Organization (WHO), which recommends keeping indoor temperatures between 64° and 75° Fahrenheit. So, when outdoor temperatures drop below 64°, that should be your sign to switch on the heat.
If you have someone over 65 or children under two years old in your household, you might turn your thermostat slightly higher. People of this age group tend to live more comfortably in warmer temperatures, especially those with chronic medical conditions and severe allergies. If this is you or someone in your household, consider going a bit higher than WHO’s recommended temperature range.
What Steps Should I Take Before Turning on the Heat?
Before you take the plunge and turn on your heat, you’ll want to ensure your system is up and ready. All responsible home and business owners should do a maintenance roundup to ensure everything is in order before even considering touching the thermostat. Below are steps you should take before switching on your heat:
Clean/Change Air Filters
Cleaning or changing air filters is essential for optimal air quality and system efficiency. If left unchecked, air filters become susceptible to blockages that restrict airflow to your furnace, causing your system to work overtime and increasing the risk of carbon monoxide leaks. Our experts recommend changing your air filter at least every 90 days.
Check Smoke Detectors
A malfunctioning furnace is a common culprit of carbon monoxide leaks and fire hazards. That said, you must check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors before turning on your heat this fall. Do a walkthrough of your home and check that every detector has a fresh pair of batteries.
Clean the Area Around the Furnace
As fall rolls around, it’s important to clean the area around your furnace to minimize fire hazards. We recommend keeping this area clear of any flammable products or materials. If your furnace is outside, check to ensure no shrubs, trees, or other plants have grown too close by. Regardless of the size of your unit, you should always have at least four feet of clearance on all sides.
Test the Thermostat
Along with your smoke detectors, you’ll also want to check your thermostat’s battery. After replacing the batteries, if necessary, you’ll need to test the thermostat. To properly check its function, set the temperature a couple of degrees higher than your current setting, then switch the heat on. Assuming the test works, you should be ready for the colder seasons! If the heat doesn’t come on, you should call your local air specialist to check things out.
Should I Try to Put Off Turning on My Heat?
The longer you wait to turn on the heat, the more you can save on your power bills. If the temperature drops aren’t too extreme, you can get away with bundling up in blankets to maintain comfort. More often than not, drastic temperature changes can make us feel colder than we actually are when, in reality, the indoor temperature has not changed. So, if you can stick it out, try to push off turning on your heat until it’s really necessary. Your wallet will thank you!
HVAC Heating and Cooling with ACS
If you need furnace repair, replacement, or maintenance this fall, you can count on ACS to get the job done. With decades of valuable industry experience, our certified HVAC technicians promise nothing but the best! Connect with our team today for top-quality HVAC maintenance, repair, or installation in Covington, Milledgeville, and surrounding areas.
