Between summer and fall, when it’s warm in the day but chilly at night, it’s time to start switching between AC and heater systems. However, alternating between the two systems can be confusing.
Our guidelines will help keep you cool and warm without causing damage to your HVAC system.
It’s Ok to Switch Between AC and Heater Systems
When the seasons change, homes can get uncomfortable. That’s why it’s a good idea to use the air conditioner during the day and the heater at night. After all, nobody wants to sweat or shiver when trying to relax at home. Your home should be a place where you can always be comfortable.
Make Sure the System has Completed its Current Cycle
Always wait until the current cycle has finished before switching from AC to heating and vice versa.
This is because the system needs time to adjust. For example, if you change from heating to cooling, the system may need to run longer than usual as it tries to cool your home down.
If you change from cooling to heating, the system may not be able to heat up your home effectively because it’s still trying to get rid of any remaining warm air. It puts pressure on the system and causes unnecessary wear and tear.
It’s best to keep your thermostat on AUTO and wait for the cycle to finish. Then, leave the system for five minutes before switching to either air-conditioning or heating. Taking care with the switch prevents high electricity bills and wear and tear on the system.
Why Short-Cycling is bad for Your HVAC
Short-cycling is when your air conditioner turns on and off too often. The constant on and off motion can cause significant damage to your system.
Short-cycling can cause wear and tear on components such as compressors and fans. This means they may need replacing sooner or need more HVAC maintenance than they would if they weren’t cycled so frequently.
What to do if Your compressor Locks Up
If your HVAC compressor is locked up, it’s a sign of a larger problem.
Your air conditioner’s compressor is what pumps refrigerant through your air conditioning system. The refrigerant absorbs heat from your home and transfers it outside. The compressor also lubricates the moving parts inside the system, so they don’t seize up and stop working.
When you turn on your air conditioner, the compressor starts up and begins pumping refrigerant through all of the lines in your house. However, if there’s something wrong with your compressor, it will lock up, which means that it won’t move at all and can’t pump any more refrigerant through your system.
Why HVAC Maintenance is Essential for a Healthy Heating and Cooling System
The HVAC system in your home should be checked regularly for any issues. Regular maintenance will help you get the most from your HVAC system, which means it will cost less to run and last longer.
Here are some reasons why HVAC maintenance is essential:
- You can save money on energy bills.
- It improves the efficiency of your HVAC system.
- It prolongs the life of your HVAC equipment.
- It increases the safety of your home.
- You can avoid the risk of encountering significant problems with the unit.
Scheduling regular HVAC maintenance ensures that your system is operating at peak efficiency and keeps your family safe from harmful pollutants in the air you breathe daily. HVAC maintenance is a critical part of keeping your home comfortable and energy-efficient.
Book your HVAC maintenance today.
Make the Transition Between Summer and Fall Easier with a Smart Thermostat
Smart thermostats help homeowners save money on heating and cooling bills by using sensors that adjust temperatures based on weather patterns, humidity levels, and occupancy rates. They also allow users to remotely control their HVAC systems via smartphone apps or web browsers worldwide.
Interested in finding out more? Contact the HVAC professionals at Sierra for more information about managing your home temperature and HVAC system through all seasons.