Preparing Your Austin Home for the Switch from AC to Heat

As summer finally loosens its grip on Central Texas, Austin homeowners start to welcome cooler mornings and crisp fall evenings. But before you swap shorts for sweaters, it’s time to make one more important seasonal change, switching your home’s HVAC system from air conditioning to heat.

Transitioning between cooling and heating modes might sound simple, but preparing your system correctly can prevent unexpected breakdowns, improve efficiency, and keep your energy bills in check. At McCullough Heating & Air Conditioning, we’re here to make sure your home stays comfortable no matter what the Austin weather decides to do next.

1. Schedule a Professional HVAC Tune-Up

The most important step in preparing for the switch from AC to heat is scheduling a fall HVAC tune-up. After working hard all summer, your system needs a little attention before heating season begins.

During a professional maintenance visit, our certified technicians will:

• Inspect your heating components for wear or damage
  
• Clean and test critical parts for safe, efficient operation
  
• Calibrate your thermostat for accurate temperature control
  
• Check filters, electrical connections, and airflow

This service ensures your system runs smoothly when the first cold front hits — and helps you avoid costly repairs later in the season.

2. Replace or Clean Air Filters

Your HVAC system’s air filters play a major role in both comfort and efficiency. After months of trapping dust, pollen, and pet hair during Austin’s hot summer, your filters are likely due for a change.

A clean filter allows your system to heat your home more efficiently and maintain better indoor air quality. We recommend replacing your filter every 1–3 months, depending on your home’s size, pets, and air quality needs.

3. Test Your Thermostat Early

Don’t wait for a chilly morning to discover your heater isn’t working! Before the temperature drops, switch your thermostat from “cool” to “heat” and test the system.

Let it run for a few minutes to make sure warm air is blowing from the vents. If you notice any unusual noises, smells, or weak airflow, contact McCullough Heating & Air Conditioning right away. We’ll get your system back on track fast.

4. Check Air Vents and Registers

Blocked or closed air vents can cause uneven heating and unnecessary strain on your HVAC system. Take a quick walk through your home to ensure all vents are open and unobstructed by furniture, rugs, or drapes.

This simple step helps air circulate more effectively, keeping every room consistently comfortable.

5. Inspect Carbon Monoxide Detectors

If your home uses a gas furnace, carbon monoxide detectors are an essential safety feature. Replace batteries, test each device, and ensure they’re located near sleeping areas and on every level of your home.

If your detectors are more than 5–7 years old, consider replacing them with new models for maximum protection.

6. Seal Air Leaks and Improve Insulation

Drafty windows or gaps around doors can make your heating system work overtime. Adding weatherstripping, caulking, or insulation helps trap warm air inside and keeps cold air out — saving you money on your utility bills.

This is also a great time to have our team perform an energy efficiency assessment to identify hidden leaks or insulation gaps throughout your home.

7. Consider a Smart Thermostat Upgrade

A smart thermostat is one of the most effective ways to improve comfort and reduce heating costs. These devices learn your routine, automatically adjust temperatures when you’re away, and can be controlled from your smartphone.

McCullough can help you choose and install a model that integrates seamlessly with your existing HVAC system, making your home more efficient and convenient year-round.

Stay Warm, Austin — Trust McCullough Heating & Air Conditioning

Whether you’re switching to heat for the first time this season or looking to upgrade to a more efficient system, McCullough Heating & Air Conditioning is your trusted local expert.

We’ve been keeping Austin homes comfortable since 1977 with reliable service, honest advice, and energy-saving solutions tailored to Texas weather.

Schedule Your Fall HVAC Tune-Up Today!

Don’t wait for the first cold front to test your heater. Schedule your fall tune-up today and make sure your Austin home is ready for the switch from AC to heat.

Call us at 512-798-0839 or book your service online.

Stay cozy, stay efficient, and stay comfortable with McCullough.