Save yourself the inconvenience, headache, and stress unexpected winter HVAC emergencies can bring by being proactive with some tips from yours truly – Xenia Heating & Air! You never know what unavoidable circumstances may arise, whether that be a furnace malfunction, power outage, or blocked roads due to inclement weather. So, take action now by preparing a backup plan for this winter. With a couple of months still left of the season, it is always better to be safe than sorry!
What Are Some Ways You Can Stay Warm on Frigid winter Days?
- Windows: As temperatures continue to stay cold, it’s important to remember that drafts can easily deplete your home of heat. So, if your furnace or the power is out, and you are waiting for help to arrive, try closing all curtains or blinds to keep the remaining warmth inside of your household.
- Indoor Vents: If your furnace is still functioning, but it is especially cold outside, take care to ensure that all internal vents are unimpeded. This means nothing should be placed over your vents or in front of them Furthermore, they need to be left open and not closed.
- Outdoor Vents: Snowy weather can become a problem in more ways than one. To ensure an efficient operating vent system, regularly inspect and clean your exterior vents of snow or ice build-up, guaranteeing proper ventilation levels. If you should happen to find any snow or ice buildup on top of your outdoor vents, gently brush them off with a broom.
- Gas Meter: Don’t overlook your gas meter, either. To be on the safe side when you are outside shoveling your driveway or checking on those exterior vents, run a quick inspection of your gas meter, making sure to clear away snow or ice that may have accumulated on top of it.
Do You Have a Backup Plan for winter HVAC Emergencies?
Don’t wait until an unexpected event arises; instead, take the necessary steps to get your home prepped now. Here are some tips on how you can do that. It never hurts to be prepared!
- Extra Blankets: If you don’t know what to do with all the extra blankets you have laying around, it’s not a bad idea to gather them up and tuck them away in one easily accessible area. That way, in your time of need, they are available to grab and ready to use – which in turn helps alleviate a bit more stress of the whole situation.
- Windows: If you’re currently unable to use your furnace or the power is out, you can use those extra blankets to drape over your windows in the meantime. This will act as an extra layer of insulation and aid in keeping the heat in your home.
- Doors: Keep your external doors closed and try to refrain from opening them as much as possible to restrict the amount of cold air that enters your home.
- Generator: If possible, investing in a reliable backup generator is a fantastic backup plan.
- Portable Heater: Portable heaters are good to keep on hand in case of emergencies. Luckily, there are many options to choose from to fit your budget and needs.
- Fireplace: If you have a fireplace in your home, it would be wise to keep an emergency supply of firewood, fire starters, and a lighter/matches on hand. The last thing you want is to head out to the store in the middle of a blizzard. So, be sure to set aside an ample supply designated solely for the purpose of winter HVAC emergencies. Although it may not feel necessary now, you will absolutely find it beneficial in your time of need.
We are proud to announce that Xenia Heating & Air offers emergency services 24/7, 365 days a year! So, in the event you find yourself in a dire situation, please do not hesitate to give us a call! We want the best for you, your home, and your family, and will be at your home as soon as we are able – no matter what time of the day. Contact us at (937) 708-8451, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!