Should You Keep Your HVAC System Running During Mild Winter Weather?

During mild weather, many homeowners wonder if they can or should turn off their HVAC system. There may even be instances wherein you may not even need to turn on your furnace. However, the weather can be unpredictable. One day, the temperature may be perfectly fine, but the next you might have to heat your entire house. 

This may make it difficult to use your HVAC system efficiently. To help you decide how to use your HVAC system during mild weather, consider reading this article from AC repair expert Mechanical Technologies.

Fluctuating weather. When temperatures constantly change, you need to prepare your thermostat settings for wide 24-hour temperature swings. This may make it necessary to have air conditioning running in the morning and the heat on at night. When it looks as if the temperatures will be mild for several days at a time, however, it’s best to turn off your HVAC system entirely. When doing this, keep in mind that it may take your system a little longer to get back to the desired temperature once you turn it back on. 

Programmable thermostat. A programmable thermostat is one of the most effective tools you can use during the winter season. You can program this type of thermostat to run at a certain temperature during the day, then switch to another temperature at night. You can also adjust your thermostat to reduce cycling times when you’re away from the house or asleep to save energy. Most thermostats allow users to program them for an entire week, so be sure to check weather forecasts so you can adjust your thermostat more accurately.

Alternative ways to keep warm. Mild winters will give your HVAC system the opportunity to rest, which is ideal for air conditioner services or other maintenance options. To keep warm on cool evenings when your HVAC system is turned off, you may want to use gas logs or an electric blanket instead of turning on your furnace. Space heaters can also be a great alternative due to their ability to heat specific areas. These alternate forms of heat will provide you with the comfort you need without wasting energy. 

Operating Your HVAC System During the Winter

Nevertheless, it’s important to note the advantages of keeping your HVAC system running during mild winters. Your HVAC units heat and cool your home, circulate air, control humidity levels and improve indoor air quality. Therefore, you must be careful to pay attention to how your home feels and smells when it’s not on. Should you choose not to run your system, you may have to open up windows or doors to let in fresh air. 

Additionally, having your HVAC system on at a lower temperature during a mild winter means it will be more capable of handling any freezing temperatures on the other side. Running your HVAC system will also prevent your pipes from freezing, which can be a costly repair. 

If you’re still unsure of how to manage your HVAC system during a mild winter, you may want to talk to the experts at Mechanical Technologies. We can accommodate your HVAC inquiries as well as provide services such as air duct cleaning and more. Call us today at (915) 544-1550 or fill out our contact form to set an appointment.