As summer fades and cool fall air rolls in, it’s time to think about more than pumpkin spice and sweaters—it’s also time to check your HVAC settings. Mini-splits make it easy to stay comfortable year-round, but knowing when to switch from cooling to heating can make a big difference in both comfort and efficiency.
Switch too early, and you may waste energy warming the house when open windows would do the trick. Switch too late, and you’ll spend chilly nights wishing you’d made the change sooner. The good news? A simple guideline can help you know exactly when it’s time.
When to Make the Switch
So, when is the “right” time to swap cooling for heating on your mini-split? A good guideline is to make the switch when outdoor temperatures consistently stay below about 65°F during the day.
Other clues:
- Your home feels naturally cool in the mornings or evenings, even without the AC running.
- Running the air conditioner starts to feel wasteful, since outdoor temps are already comfortable.
- You find yourself reaching for extra layers indoors.
For most homeowners, this transition happens in early to mid-fall, depending on your climate. By switching at the right time, you’ll keep your home comfortable without driving up energy use.
How to Switch Modes on Your Mini-Split
Switching from cooling to heating on a mini-split is simple, but there are a few things to know so you get the best performance:
- Grab your remote or wall control — most systems let you change modes with a single button.
- Look for the sun icon or “HEAT” mode — this tells the system to start producing warm air. If you’re not sure which icon is which, it’s best to check your user manual.
- Be patient! — unlike a furnace, a heat pump doesn’t blow hot air instantly. Give it a few minutes to ramp up.
- Check your airflow — once it’s run for a few minutes, make sure warm air is flowing from the indoor unit. If you don’t feel warm air, check your thermostat settings to make sure it’s set to a temperature higher than the current room temp. If all else fails, contact your manufacturer’s customer service for help troubleshooting the issue before contacting an HVAC tech.
Tip: If you’ve been running your AC heavily, it’s a good idea to clean or check your air filters before switching modes. A little maintenance goes a long way toward efficient heating.
Maximizing Efficiency in Heating Mode
Switching to heat is just the first step—getting the most out of your mini-split in the colder months takes a little preparation and good habits. Here’s how to keep things running efficiently:
- Set a steady temperature
- Avoid constantly raising and lowering the thermostat. Mini-splits work best when they maintain a consistent temp instead of reheating from cold.
- Clean or check filters
- Dirty filters restrict airflow, making your system work harder. Start the season with clean filters and check them regularly.
- Clear the outdoor unit
- Leaves, dirt, or snow around your outdoor condenser can reduce performance. Keep the area clear for proper airflow.
- Use accessories to protect your investment
- Line set covers, mounting brackets, and pads help keep your system secure and protected from the elements through fall and winter.
With these steps, your mini-split can keep you warm without driving up your energy bill.
Make the Switch at the Right Time
Transitioning your mini-split from cooling to heating doesn’t have to be complicated. By following a simple guideline—switching when temps consistently dip below 65°F—you’ll keep your home comfortable and your system running efficiently.
With just a few maintenance steps, your mini-split will be ready to handle whatever fall and winter throw your way.
Ready to prepare for the season? Shop mini-splits and cold-weather accessories at The HVAC Spot and make sure your system is set up for reliable comfort.