With the arrival of a Wisconsin spring, temperatures can vary widely. One day may seem on the verge of snow, while the next will feel like a summer preview. As a result, you may be switching your HVAC between its heating and cooling settings. Learn how this can affect your HVAC system and how to prevent any operational issues.

How Switching Back & Forth Can Affect an HVAC Unit

In general, shifting the settings between heating and cooling won't cause damage. However, there is the risk of short cycling the system if you make the switch too soon. Short cycling essentially means that the unit is shut off and turned back on before a heating or cooling cycle has been fully completed, causing the compressor to lock up. The pressure inside the compressor needs to equalize before it can effectively begin another task. Short cycling can trip the HVAC's circuit breakers; make it impossible to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature; force the compressor to turn on and off and consume energy, leading to higher utility bills; and exert significant wear and tear on the HVAC system.

How to Avoid Switching Problems

To avoid short cycling, the best course of action is to give the system enough time to finish its current cycle and then wait five minutes before initiating the switch. Be aware that some units have integrated timers to automatically prevent short cycling, so you may not need to wait the five minutes, as the system won't restart until it's ready; check your HVAC owner's manual to see if your unit has this built-in capacity. Whether you have a timer or not, it's always a good idea to adjust the temperature setting gradually. Don't go from a hot temperature to a cold one, or vice versa. This can overtax the system and make it less energy efficient. Instead, modify the temperature by only a few degrees at a time; wait until the room heats or cools to the set temperature; then continue adjusting gradually until you reach the desired climate.

If you experience any problems when switching between settings, the professionals at High Tech HVAC Co. are here to help. They can perform seasonal inspections to ensure your unit is working properly and is prepared to handle the demands of changing temperatures. Since 1996, they have been serving the Tri-City Area of Wisconsin Rapids, Nekoosa, and Port Edwards, WI. They offer air conditioner and furnace repairs and installations for homes and businesses. Call (715) 423-4881 or visit their website to schedule service today.