Should I Turn Off My Furnace in the Spring?

As winter fades and the warm breeze of spring starts to settle in, homeowners often begin thinking about opening windows, packing away winter coats, and giving their homes a thorough spring cleaning. But one question that’s frequently overlooked is:

Should I turn off my furnace in the spring?

The short answer is it depends.

 

Let’s explore the reasons why you might want to shut your furnace off during the warmer months, when it makes sense to keep it on standby, and how to do it safely if you choose to power it down.

Why Consider Turning Off Your Furnace in the Spring?

When the temperatures start to rise, your furnace naturally stops kicking on as frequently. However, as spring brings milder temperatures, the demand for heating decreases. Despite this reduced need, your furnace may still engage periodically, especially during cooler evenings or unexpected cold snaps. Understanding how your furnace operates during this season is essential in making an informed decision about whether to turn it off.

Here’s why you might want to fully shut it down: 

Save on Energy Bills

Even when not actively heating, furnaces can consume energy due to standby functions and pilot lights. By turning off your furnace during the warmer months, you eliminate this residual energy consumption, leading to noticeable savings on your utility bills. 

Prolong Furnace Lifespan

Keeping your furnace off during the months it’s not needed can help reduce wear and tear on components. While the furnace may not be heating, it can still go through startup cycles or keep internal systems powered. Giving it a break can help extend its overall life.

Enhancing Home Safety

If your furnace runs on gas or oil, turning it off completely can eliminate the risk of leaks, pilot light issues, or other malfunctions while it's not in use. It’s always best to err on the side of caution when it comes to fuel-burning appliances.

When Might You Want to Leave It On?

While there are benefits to turning your furnace off in the spring, there are also some situations where it might make sense to leave it on at least temporarily. 

Unpredictable Weather

In many regions, spring weather can be inconsistent. One week you’re in T-shirts, and the next you’re digging out your hoodie. If your area is known for sudden cold snaps, you might want to wait until you're confident the freezing temperatures are gone for good before shutting it down. 

Shared Systems

Some homes use a combination system where the furnace shares components with the air conditioning system, such as the blower fan. In those cases, completely turning off the furnace could disrupt the AC function. If you're unsure whether your systems are integrated, consult your HVAC technician.

Vacation or Rental Properties

If you own a second home, rental property, or plan to be away for an extended period, keeping the furnace on at a low setting can prevent the interior from getting too cold if the weather dips. This is especially important if you want to avoid issues like frozen pipes.

How to Turn Off Your Furnace Safely?

If you’ve decided that turning off your furnace for the season is the right move, here’s how to do it properly:

Shut off the thermostat: Start by setting your thermostat to “Off” or switching it to “Cooling” mode if you're transitioning to air conditioning.

Turn off the power switch: Most furnaces have a dedicated power switch nearby, similar to a light switch. Flip this to the “Off” position to cut power to the unit.

Shut off the gas supply (if applicable): If your furnace uses natural gas or propane, you can shut off the gas valve to the unit. This is usually a small lever near the gas line; turn it perpendicular to the pipe to close it.

Perform maintenance: Spring is a great time to replace filters, clean around the unit, and check for any unusual wear or damage. If you notice anything concerning it, schedule a professional inspection.

So, should you turn off your furnace in the spring?

For many homeowners, the answer is yes, especially if you want to save on energy costs and reduce unnecessary wear. However, it’s important to consider your specific climate, your HVAC system’s configuration, and your household’s needs. 

If you’re ever unsure about what’s best for your home, consult with a Go Lime expert today. We can provide personalized advice and ensure your system is ready for both the cooling season ahead and the next heating season to come.

Taking a few simple steps now can help ensure a smooth transition into warmer weather and a stress-free start when winter rolls back around.

Need Help with Seasonal HVAC Maintenance?

At Go Lime, we offer comprehensive spring HVAC maintenance across Ontario. Whether you're unsure how to shut off your furnace, need a tune-up, or want to prepare your A/C system, our expert technicians are here to help.

Contact us today to book your seasonal checkup and keep your home comfortable year-round.