During the cold winter months, it is essential to have an emergency plan in place for unexpected HVAC issues. For instance, what if you experience a power outage or your furnace fails due to hazardous weather conditions and roads become impassable? Having a contingency plan enables you and your family to have some warmth during unpredictable times like this. So, join Madeira Heating & Air as we provide you with some essential tips to prepare for any unexpected emergencies that may arise during the rest of the winter season. We’ll provide tips to help keep your home and family warm and provide some backup heating options as well. Be proactive and get ready now so you won’t have anything to worry about later!
WHAT TIPS AND TRICKS CAN you APPLY TO COLD WEATHER?
Indoor Vents: To maximize the efficiency of your HVAC system during those particularly frosty winter days, make sure that all your indoor vents are free from any obstructions like furniture and mats. You don’t want anything placed over these vents or even in front of them that could be blocking the line of airflow. Furthermore, it would be wise to perform a quick walk-through of your home to confirm that all vents are left open (none should be closed).
Outdoor Vents: To ensure efficient airflow and maintenance, it is critical to maintain clear exterior vents as well. We suggest routinely inspecting these components, especially during the snowy weeks when snow can accumulate quickly. To avoid any substantial issues from occurring due to blockages, make vent clearing a part of your shoveling regimen. When cleaning the outside vents, gently use either a brush or broom; this will help with removing excess buildup that may have built up during snowfall.
Gas Meter: Homeowners must be aware of the location of their gas meter, as there may be difficulty accessing them if they are blocked by snow. Taking preventative steps and planning ahead are key to avoiding any disruptions or issues. Familiarize yourself with your meter’s position, ensuring it is not weighed down by any ice or snow buildup on your driveway (another important part you should quickly check whilst shoveling)! If you find any snow or ice buildup on top of your gas meter, gently brush it off.
Heat Pump: Ohio winters are renowned for their inclement temperatures, making it necessary to add snow removal from your outdoor heat pump to your upkeep plan. Make sure you frequently assess the amount of ice or snow on and around your heating pump. Most outdoor heat pumps come with a defrosting feature, but you never know if snow has overtaken the pump, so checking it while you’re outside is not a bad idea.
Windows: On frigid winter days, don’t forget to close your window treatments and blinds in order to retain more of the warmth inside and reduce heat loss. Curtains can act as another layer of insulation against the winter elements.
WHAT ARE SOME BACKUP PLANS IDEAS YOU CAN PUT INTO EFFECT?
To keep your home comfortable and safe while you wait for the power to return or a service technician to show up, try using these tips:
Generator: If you are able to, taking the precaution of installing a backup generator is an excellent way to ensure that you have a backup plan during power outages.
Portable Heater: When you’re in need of a backup heating plan, having some portable heaters on hand is an excellent solution. Although they won’t work if the power has gone out too, these products can provide additional warmth to your home when your furnace stops working. Plus, there are plenty of affordable options available!
Fireplace: To guarantee comfort during possible power outages or furnace malfunctions, it would be wise to store firewood and the appropriate accessories like lighters, matches, and fire starters. By reserving an ample amount of wood in advance, you’ll have everything ready if you ever need it!
Extra Blankets: Are you searching for a clever way to store your blankets that aren’t frequently used? Why not compile them together and place them in an emergency tote or bin so they are close at hand if there is ever an unexpected power outage or furnace malfunction? With the blankets being readily accessible, you can easily retrieve any one of them when needed.
Windows: When temperatures dip below freezing, you can create an additional barrier between your windows with blankets or towels to guard against the coldest of weather conditions; this method is especially useful during moments of crisis, such as power outages.
Doors: When the temperature dips below freezing, be especially mindful when you open external doors. Not only will the cold flood into your home and make it chillier, but any residual warm air still in your home may escape as well.
Don’t wait for help when you need it most! Trust Madeira Heating & Air to be there for your HVAC emergencies and needs around the clock. Our 24/7 service means we are always available, no matter what day of the year! Call us today. You can contact us at (513) 655-5125 or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
