A Guide to Switching Between Your AC and Furnace

August 23, 2023

When the seasons finally change and it’s time to switch from your AC to your furnace, you want to ensure it’s done right. Each system has unique elements, and after sitting dormant for months, your furnace may need some general care. Taking the right steps ensures the best performance and that you don’t face repair issues down the road. Here is a helpful guide to the transition.

How Are These Systems Different?

It’s first necessary to understand that your furnace and AC unit are two separate systems. The furnace is for heating; the AC is for cooling. Unlike central air systems—and despite sharing some elements—they operate independently. In many cases, furnaces run on natural gas, giving them unique maintenance needs. However, both are typically controlled with the same home thermostat and are connected to the same ductwork and filtration system.

What Should You Do Before Switching Over?

Late fall is usually the time to run your furnace. Before you reach the threshold, schedule an inspection. The furnace has been unused for several months. Parts need to be lubricated, so they run smoothly and the gas system needs to be inspected. A furnace technician can confirm there are no leaks in the gas line and that it’s feeding the furnace at a sufficient rate to handle your home-heating needs. They’ll also test the carbon monoxide detector. In the rare instance there’s a leak, these detect the colorless, odorless gas to ensure you evacuate your home.

How Do You Switch Over?

It's important to first switch your thermostat to the HEAT setting. Next, find your furnace in a basement, attic, or utility closet. On the side should be a switch that looks similar to a light switch. Flip it up to the on position. This activates the pilot light inside and the gas feed. Once the furnace kicks on, these react and begin generating heat.

If you’re overdue for a furnace tune-up, the team at Alpine Heating & Cooling will assist. Serving Wooster, OH, and surrounding communities since 1993, we are a locally owned and operated HVAC contractor working with a variety of heating and cooling systems. Call (330) 263-0013 to schedule an AC repair or inspection and visit our website to learn more about our qualifications. Connect on Facebook for more tips and insights.

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Do You Need to Replace Your AC Because of New Refrigerant Rules?

May 20, 2026

If you’ve heard people talking about “new refrigerant rules” for air conditioners and heat pumps, you’re not alone. Homeowners are wondering if their current AC system is suddenly outdated or impossible to repair. The simple answer is no — you do not need to replace your air conditioner just because refrigerant rules have changed. What Changed With HVAC Refrigerants? The HVAC industry is moving away from higher-GWP refrigerants, including R-410A, and toward newer refrigerants with lower environmental impact. Under the EPA’s refrigerant transition rules, many new residential air conditioners and heat pumps manufactured after January 1, 2025 must use lower-GWP refrigerants. Existing systems can still be serviced, and parts used to repair existing systems are not subject to the same restrictions as new equipment. For homeowners, that means your current air conditioner or heat pump does not automatically need replaced. Can My Current AC Still Be Repaired? Yes. If your system uses R-410A, it can still be serviced. The bigger question is whether a repair makes financial sense. As older refrigerants become less common over time, certain repairs — especially refrigerant leak repairs — may become more expensive. That does not mean every older system should be replaced, but it does make the repair-versus-replace decision more important. When Should You Consider Replacing Your AC? You may want to consider replacement if: -Your system is over 10–15 years old -You are facing a major repair -Your AC has a refrigerant leak -Your energy bills keep climbing -Your home has uneven temperatures -Your system uses older equipment that is no longer under warranty If your system is newer, running well, and only needs a minor repair, replacement may not be necessary. Don’t Panic — Get Honest Advice The new refrigerant rules are a real change in the HVAC industry, but they should not be used to scare homeowners into replacing equipment before they need to. At Alpine Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Refrigeration, we help homeowners understand their options clearly. Whether your system needs a simple repair, a refrigerant leak check, or a full replacement estimate, our goal is to give you honest information so you can make the best decision for your home. Have Questions About Your AC System? If you’re unsure whether to repair or replace your air conditioner, contact Alpine today. Our team can inspect your system, explain your options, and help you prepare for the future of home comfort. 📞 Schedule a Comfort Evaluation OFFICES Wooster: (330) 263.0013 Ashland: (419) 289.1616 Mt. Eaton (330) 359.7114 Email: sales@alpine-services.com. Website: https://www.alpine-services.com/contact