Chilly Nights Prompt Homeowners in San Antonio to Turn on Heaters and Prepare for Winter

Chilly Nights Are Back in San Antonio!

Hey there, San Antonio! As the temperature drops, homeowners in our vibrant city are flipping the switch on their heating systems in preparation for the cooler months ahead. Last night, as the mercury dipped to around 60°F, many, including local resident Phillip Goss, found themselves reaching for the thermostat for the very first time this season. “It was kind of chilly last night, so I had to warm up the house,” Goss mentioned. Sounds like a familiar situation!

A Common Occurrence

Now, if you’re like Phillip, you might have noticed a little something unusual when you turned on that heater. Perhaps a whiff of something odd wafting through the air? But before you panic, let’s discuss this “funny smell.” According to local HVAC expert Alberto Cruz from Above All Air, there’s no need to worry. “At the beginning of the winter, when you turn on the heater, you’ll get a funny smell with it,” he explains. Phew! That’s a relief, isn’t it?

What Causes The Smell?

So, what’s behind this strange aroma? Cruz reassures us that it’s just burning off residual material left over from last season’s heating. “It’s perfectly normal and happens a lot,” he adds. In fact, this smell shouldn’t linger for more than a few days. Cruz emphasizes, “It’ll run through the system, but within a couple of days, it’ll be gone with the smell.” So, it’s just a little hiccup as your heater gets back into its groove!

Maintaining Your Heating System

While we’re on the subject, now is also an excellent time to discuss heater maintenance. Cruz suggests that this time of year is perfect for giving your heating system a little TLC. “Do proper maintenance around this time, especially with the heater,” he advises, cautioning about potential issues like cracks in the furnace or risks of carbon monoxide leaks. Yikes! The last thing anyone wants is an unsafe heating system, right?

When in Doubt, Call It Out!

If you’re feeling a bit on edge about your heating system, don’t hesitate to get a professional to take a look. “It’s always wise to just kind of keep up with maintenance and have somebody at least come out and check it out,” says Cruz. Smart move – a little peace of mind can go a long way, especially during those frosty nights!

Final Thoughts

As we settle into the winter season in San Antonio, let’s remember that while those colder evenings might catch us off guard, there’s no reason to fret about turning on the heat. With a little knowledge and preventive care, your heating system can keep your home cozy without any unnecessary surprises. So, next time you fire up your heater and catch a whiff of something funny, just remember: it’s all part of getting back into the swing of winter!

Here’s to toasty homes and warm hearts this season. Stay warm, San Antonio!