We tend to take a warm home for granted. You walk in and out and go about daily life without giving a second’s thought to the warm embrace of constant heat. Then suddenly there’s a mechanical issue or a power outage, and the temperature inside your home begins to plummet. Do you know the steps to take before and during a heating crisis?
Prevent
The best way to prevent furnace problems when you least expect them is to schedule an annual check of your system before the winter months begin. A comprehensive evaluation of your system will help catch problems before they arise and will reduce the chances for mid-winter issues.
Prepare
Sometimes life throws a curveball and leaves you chilly. A sudden mechanical issue, an ice storm, or power outage can mean your once-comfy inside temps can dip lower and lower. Be ready with a winter survival kit, including emergency food and water, battery powered flashlights or lanterns, and a handy stash of extra layers. It might be a good idea to grab a non-electric space heater or two, as well.
Settle In
As soon as the heating issue strikes, take action to preserve the existing heat. Start by closing all the interior doors and picking a main room for the family and pets to congregate. Next, seal any drafts to exterior doors and windows with rolled up towels or blankets. Gather a pile of extra clothing layers that can be added as needed, including hats, sweatshirts, outerwear, and plenty of socks (which can double as mittens if necessary). Pull comforters and blankets off the bed, and empty the linen closet to create a ready supply of wrap-around layers. Take a few minutes to open faucets around the house to a slight drip to ensure your pipes don’t freeze. Then settle in and try to stay cozy—tell lots of stories and jokes to help stave off grumpiness!
Alternate Heat
If you have a fireplace, get it going, and gather extra wood inside to avoid having to open exterior doors. If you have space heaters designed for indoor use, gather those as well, and use in your designated warm room.
By following these guidelines and being proactive, you can get through the worst of the chill until experts arrive to fix the issue. With our dedicated team and 24 hour emergency service, you can be sure we will be responsive and able to help.