When Should You Turn Your Furnace on?

As the seasons shift and temperatures drop, you might start wondering when to turn on your furnace. Knowing when to start cranking up your heating system can help keep your home comfortable and energy-efficient throughout the colder months.

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What Does It Mean to Turn the Furnace On?

Turning the furnace on simply means activating your home’s heating system to produce warm air and circulate it throughout your living spaces. Most modern furnaces are connected to a central thermostat that monitors your home’s indoor temperature and signals the furnace to either turn on or off. This process ensures your home remains within the desired temperature range, providing comfort during chilly weather.

You’ll know your furnace is working when you hear it kick on, feel warm air flowing through your vents and notice your home’s temperature gradually rising to your preferred setting.

What Month Should I Turn the Furnace On?

While the exact timing can vary depending on where you live, many homeowners turn their furnaces on in mid-to-late fall, usually around October or November. A good rule of thumb is to monitor your local weather and indoor temperature as a guide for when to make the switch.

If you live in an area with milder winters, you may be able to hold off on turning your furnace on until later in the season. However, once daytime temperatures consistently drop below 60 degrees Fahrenheit and nighttime temperatures are dipping into the 40s or lower, it's time to think about setting your thermostat for heating.

At What Temperature Should I Turn the Furnace On?

For healthy adults, the ideal indoor temperature typically hovers between 68 degrees F and 72 degrees F during the colder months. You can delay turning the furnace on until your home’s indoor temperature drops to around 65 degrees F or lower. This is often the tipping point where you might feel uncomfortable without some form of heating.

If you have young children, elderly family members or anyone with health concerns in your household, you might need to turn on the furnace sooner to maintain a slightly warmer environment. In these cases, aim for an indoor temperature closer to 70 degrees F to ensure everyone’s comfort and safety.

When Should I Turn the Furnace Off?

Once outdoor temperatures rise consistently above 60 degrees F, it’s likely time to turn off your furnace and rely on natural warmth or your home’s cooling system. This usually happens in late spring, around May or June, depending on your location.

To save on energy, consider adjusting your thermostat as the weather changes. For instance, you can lower the temperature during the night or when you’re away from home to reduce the furnace’s workload and lower your energy bills. Using a programmable thermostat can help you make these adjustments automatically, ensuring you’re not using more energy than necessary.

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Preparing Your Furnace for the Season

Before you turn your furnace on for the season, it's a good idea to schedule an annual furnace tune-up. This ensures it’s ready to handle the demands of the winter months. An HVAC professional will check your furnace’s components, clean filters and make any necessary repairs to optimize its performance.

This keeps your furnace running efficiently, extends its lifespan and helps you avoid unexpected breakdowns when the temperature outside plummets. Regular maintenance is key to saving money on costly repairs and keeping your home warm when it matters most.

Set Your Thermostat for Comfort and Efficiency

Setting your thermostat correctly can help you maintain a comfortable indoor temperature while also saving money on your energy bills. For maximum energy efficiency, the U.S. Department of Energy recommends keeping your thermostat set to around 68 degrees F when you’re home during the day. At night or when you’re away, lowering the temperature by 10-15 degrees F can lead to significant energy savings — up to 10% a year on heating and cooling costs.

Improve Energy Efficiency and Save on Energy

Ensuring your home is properly insulated and free of drafts can go a long way in improving energy efficiency and reducing the workload on your furnace. Sealing gaps around doors, windows and other areas where cold air can sneak in helps retain warmth, meaning your furnace won’t have to work as hard to keep your home comfortable.