Can you Use Both Your Heat and Air Conditioner at the Same Time?

Both Sacramento and the East Bay go through a weather transition period between fall and winter. You’ll find yourself switching between turning on the AC and furnace throughout the day. But using your heat and air conditioner at the same time can be confusing. Our guidelines will help you stay cool in the summer and warm in winter without damaging your HVAC system.

It’s Okay to Switch Between Your AC and Heater

You can enjoy both heating and air conditioning. It’s fine to switch between the two as long as you’re doing it the right way. If you don’t switch between systems properly, the components can use a lot of energy going between the different functions. In the end, you’ll end up with a high energy bill and more wear and tear on your HVAC system.

Don’t Switch Until the Current Cycle has Finished

Whether you need air conditioning or heating, don’t switch between systems until the one currently running ends its cycle. Waiting for the cycle to finish allows time for the HVAC system to reset itself and prepare for the next cycle. It also prevents you from wasting energy by running both systems at once.

But that’s not the only way to reduce energy bills when switching between systems. Keeping your thermostat at a reasonably even temperature will also help. When adjusting the thermostat, increase or decrease by a few degrees rather than in larger increments.

Why you Should Keep Your HVAC Unit from Short-Cycling

Short cycling is the practice of turning on and off an HVAC unit’s compressor too frequently. Constantly switching from air-conditioning to heating causes the system to wear out more quickly than it should, shortens its lifespan, and can cause other issues with your home’s comfort system.

The main problem with short cycling is that it causes unnecessary wear on your HVAC unit’s components — specifically its compressor and fan motors. When these parts overheat from continuous use, they can break down prematurely and cause additional issues with your home’s comfort system, such as poor performance or, even worse: a complete breakdown, but only in extreme cases.

In addition, short cycling can also cause damage to other components in your system like condensers, evaporators, or fans. Reducing the number of switches from air-conditioning to heating can reduce the chances of your system short cycling.

Compressor Locked Up? Here’s what to do Next

If your HVAC compressor is locked or jammed, you’ll need to have it repaired. We always recommend calling a professional.

If your HVAC system is not cooling properly, if the unit is making unusual noises or if there is a burning smell coming from the compressor area, turn off the air conditioner and contact a qualified HVAC specialist immediately. There could be a serious problem with the compressor.

Sometimes the compressor can lock up. When this happens, schedule time with an HVAC company for repair as soon as possible. The technician will inspect your unit, conduct an electrical, and determine what is wrong with your system. Calling the experts is the best way to get your HVAC system back in tip-top condition.

Book Regular HVAC Maintenance to Keep Your System Running Smoothly

HVAC units are a significant investment. However, they don’t come cheap. But if you don’t take care of them, you’ll end up paying more in the long run for repairs and HVAC maintenance.

Taking good care of your system and booking regular tune-ups is the best way to keep your HVAC system running smoothly. In addition, you’ll save money on your energy bills if your system works correctly.

Maintaining your HVAC system means maintaining all components of your system, such as replacing your filters regularly. For example, a new filter can significantly affect your system’s performance because it traps dust, dander, and other airborne contaminates in its ducting system before it gets circulated through your system and your whole house.

Why a Smart Thermostat Makes Moving from Summer to Fall a Breeze

Smart thermostats are programmable devices that allow homeowners to remotely control the temperature in their homes over Wi-Fi or a mobile app.

A smart thermostat learns your activity patterns over time and adjusts accordingly. It will know when to turn on or off based on how long it takes for you to get home from work each day — without any manual adjustments required!

Even better, a smart thermostat can help save money on your energy bills by using less electricity than traditional models, which means lower monthly costs. It’s the perfect tool to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.

Interested in finding out more about keeping your home at a comfortable temperature all year long? Contact the HVAC experts at Bell Brothers.