The days are growing shorter. Mornings and evenings feel crisp. And yes, the Kansas City Chiefs’ opening games are in full swing—a sure sign that colder nights are here to stay, at least for the next few months.
With the unpredictable fall weather here in Kansas, it might be warm and sunny one moment, and downright chilly the next. That’s your cue to think about your home heating system. As a general rule, it’s wise to switch over to heating when the outdoor temperature range repeatedly dips into the mid-50s.
Fall Weather in Kansas City
Autumn in Kansas City can bring surprising temperature swings. There’s no doubt you need long pants and a jacket in the morning, but by the afternoon, you’re changing into shorts and a t-shirt. Driving around town reveals trees crowned with golden leaves, while blue skies and sunshine abound.
But under the beauty of the changing seasons lies a warning: harsh winter weather is close at hand. Now’s the time to ensure your home has a dependable heating system all ready to go.
Finding the Right Temperature Threshold
You don’t have to wait until you’re freezing to hit “heat,” yet comfort and energy savings should go hand in hand. Many thermostats offer a hybrid mode that switches between heating and cooling during fluctuating fall temperatures. In this setting, the system keeps your home within the range you set. If the indoor temperature rises too high, the AC turns on. If it gets too cold, the furnace triggers.
Use this mode if your thermostat supports it to help you balance comfort and efficiency without manually toggling between modes. If not, just monitor your comfort level. If you switch to heat too early, you can always flip back to AC for those warm afternoons.
Homeowner Tips Before Turning on the Heat
Before you fire up the furnace for the first time, take a moment to prep with these furnace inspection tips:
- Check the thermostat: Ensure it’s working properly and set to “heat.” If it’s unresponsive or acting strange, it’s better to find out early.
- Change the air filter: Fall is a great time to swap in a fresh filter. Cleaner air and better airflow reduce strain on your system.
- Schedule routine maintenance: Hiring a technician to inspect and tune up your system helps catch minor issues before they escalate.
- Inspect vents and registers: Make sure they’re open and unobstructed, as blockages can reduce comfort and disrupt airflow.
- Examine visible ductwork: Look for leaks, gaps, or disconnected sections. Sealing your ductwork helps your heating system work more efficiently.
Why It’s Smart to Turn on the Heat Early
Switching on your heating before winter arrives offers some unexpected benefits:
- Find and address small issues while service demand is still low.
- Reduce the risk of sudden problems during peak cold.
- Stay comfortable rather than waking up freezing because you forgot to switch over to heating the night before.
Don’t Wait for Winter—Schedule Heating Service Now
If you need heating services, now is the time to act. The importance of HVAC maintenance cannot be overstated. It keeps your system running smoothly, improves efficiency, and catches trouble early. Signing a contract with your service provider is the best way to maximize HVAC maintenance plan benefits, including priority scheduling, discounted repairs, and peace of mind.
Waiting until winter sets in means competing for time slots with people who are having true heating emergencies. Check HVAC maintenance off your to-do list, and get your furnace ready for colder weather today.
Book Your Furnace Inspection
Santa Fe Heating & Air has served Kansas City since 1985. Our licensed technicians are background-checked and well-versed in all major brands. We provide upfront pricing, no overtime charges, and same‑day services when you need us most. If you live in Kansas City, Gardner, or the broader Johnson County area, don’t wait until the cold sweeps in.
Contact us today to sign up for a maintenance plan or schedule heating services.
