As the weather turns cooler and the days get shorter, many homeowners in Austin start to wonder: When should I turn my heat on? It’s a question that balances comfort with energy efficiency. No one wants to shiver in their own home, but they also don’t want to waste money on unnecessary heating costs.

This guide will help you determine the optimal time to turn on your heat, considering factors like personal preference, energy savings, and the unique Austin climate. 

Time of Year: Austin’s Unique Climate

Austin experiences mild winters compared to other parts of the country. We have the occasional cold snaps, but our winters don’t typically have prolonged periods of freezing temperatures. This means you might not need to turn on your heat until later in the year. Typically, most Texas homeowners decide to turn their heat on in October

In the end, it’s all subjective. The best option for staying comfortable is to turn your heat on during the colder months. For Texas, heatable months range from October through March. 

Signs It’s Time to Turn on the Heat

Besides watching the calendar, if you’re wondering, “when should I turn my heat on?” here are some telltale signs: 

  • The Weather Forecast: Paying attention to the weather forecast can allow you to adjust your thermostat accordingly to a level perfect for your comfort. If a cold front is coming through, you’ll want to make sure your heating system is ready to go. It’s become more common in Texas for cold fronts to occur between January to February.
  • You’re Constantly Wearing Layers Indoors: If you find yourself bundled up in sweaters and blankets even inside your home, it’s definitely time to turn on the heat. There’s no need for you to suffer in the chilly indoors when you have the freedom to turn the heat on. 
  • Your Home Feels Damp and Chilly: A cold home can start to feel damp, especially in Austin due to the humidity. This can make your home feel even colder and can contribute to mold growth. You can prevent the dampness and mold by turning on the heat to a practical temperature. 
  • You’re Experiencing Drafts: Check your windows and doors for drafts. Sealing any air leaks can help improve your home’s insulation and reduce the need for heating.

The “Ideal” Temperature: Finding Your Comfort Zone

There’s no single “right” answer to when you should turn on your heat. It largely depends on the personal comfort level of you and your family. Some people are perfectly fine wearing sweaters indoors and keeping the thermostat lower, while others prefer a warmer environment.

The U.S. The Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 68°F when you’re home and awake during the winter months.

The Pros and Cons of Turning Heat On 

Deciding when to turn on your heat often comes down to balancing comfort with energy conservation. While running your heating system keeps your home warm and cozy, it can also lead to higher energy bills. However, when you don’t turn on your heating you’re able to conserve energy and expenses, but your days might feel a bit more chilly.

An intricate connection of white pipes are connected to a gas meter.

When Should I Turn My Heat On During the Day: Consider a Programmable Thermostats

Modern programmable thermostats offer a fantastic way to optimize your heating schedule and save energy. You can program your thermostat to automatically lower the temperature when you’re asleep or away from home, and then raise the temperature before you wake up or return.

A possible schedule for your thermostat could consist of setting temperatures to: 

  • Daytime (6:00 AM – 8:00 AM): 68°F – 70°F
  • Work/School Hours (8:00 AM – 5:00 PM): 62°F – 65°F
  • Evenings (5:00 PM – 10:00 PM): 68°F – 70°F
  • Nighttime (10:00 PM – 6:00 AM): 60°F – 65°F

Remember, these are just suggestions. Adjust the temperatures at times that fit your lifestyle and preferences.

Time of Week: Weekday vs. Weekend Heating

If you work from home or have a flexible schedule, you might not need to heat your home as much during the weekdays. Consider setting your thermostat a few degrees lower on weekdays when you’re less active around the house.

Don’t Forget Regular Maintenance!

Before you turn on your heat for the first time this season, you might want to consider scheduling a professional maintenance check-up. TemperaturePro Austin offers comprehensive heating system tune-ups to ensure your system is running efficiently and safely.

During a maintenance visit, a technician will:

  • Inspect your furnace or heat pump for any issues.
  • Clean and replace air filters.
  • Check the thermostat calibration.
  • Test safety controls.

Regular maintenance can help prevent costly breakdowns, improve energy efficiency, and extend the lifespan of your heating system. 

TemperaturePro Austin: Your Partner in Home Comfort

If you’re in doubt, TemperaturePro Austin has got you covered. At TemperaturePro Austin, we understand the importance of a comfortable and energy-efficient home. We recommend turning the heat on from October to March, along with checking that your heating system is ready for the winter. Our team of experienced HVAC technicians can help you with all your heating needs, from routine maintenance to emergency repairs.

When should I turn my heat on? Well, don’t wait until you’re shivering! Schedule your heating system tune-up with TemperaturePro Austin today.