Katy, TX Homeowners: Safely Switch from AC to Heat—Your Step-by-Step Guide for Fall

Before you touch anything inside, you need to turn off the power to your outdoor AC unit. This is the most crucial safety step.

• Locate the Disconnect Box: This is a gray metal box usually mounted on the wall near the outdoor condenser unit.

• Flip the Switch: Open the box and flip the electrical shut-off switch (it looks like a breaker) to the “OFF” position. Some units have a pull-out block; remove it.

Why this matters: Cutting power prevents electrical mishaps and protects your system when you turn on the furnace, as the outdoor unit will be fully deactivated.

Your AC unit has worked hard all summer. Give it some R&R before the weather turns nasty.

• Clear Debris: Remove any leaves, grass clippings, or dirt that have collected around the base or the fins. Ensure the area is clear of shrubs and weeds.

• Optional: Cover It Up: While controversial among HVAC pros, if your unit is sheltered and protected from moisture, a breathable cover can prevent falling debris from settling inside the fan area during winter storms.

Your air filter serves both your AC and your furnace. A dirty filter is the number one cause of system breakdowns and high energy bills.

• Locate the Filter: It’s usually found in the air handler (the indoor unit) or behind a vent cover in your wall/ceiling.

• Inspect and Replace: If the filter is dark gray or clogged, replace it with a new one immediately. This is key for efficient heating and healthy indoor air quality.

Boost Your Indoor Air Quality! If you are running your furnace after a long summer, this is the perfect time to clear out the dust, pet dander, and allergens that are trapped deep within your vents. Ask us about our Duct Cleaning Holiday Special for $300 Off!

This is the moment of truth! Follow the instructions for your specific thermostat model (digital, smart, or manual):

1. Change Mode: Switch the setting from “Cool” or “AC” to “Heat” or “Furnace.”

2. Set Fan to “Auto”: Always keep your fan setting on “Auto,” which means the fan only runs when the furnace is actively heating your home. The “On” setting will run the fan 24/7, raising your electricity bill.

3. Set the Temperature: Set the desired temperature five degrees higher than the current room temperature. This will prompt your furnace to start running.

When you turn on the heat for the first time, expect a slight burning odor. Don’t panic!

• The Smell: This is simply dust that has settled on the heat exchanger during the off-season. It usually dissipates within 15 to 30 minutes.

• Safety Check: After 30 minutes, confirm that warm air is coming out of your vents and that the burning smell is gone.

If the burning smell persists, the furnace doesn’t turn on, or you hear strange noises, immediately turn the system off and call a professional.