The drastic cold weather sweeping our region will be putting our home heating systems to the test this week. While the wind chills are so low, some expected to reach 35 below zero, you may experience some colder temperatures indoors as well.
Before you get worried that your furnace is broken, be mindful that your home heating system is actually only designed and sized to operate at a low outdoor temperature of 0 degrees Fahrenheit. Once the weather brings sub-zero temperatures, it’s normal to experience some lag in the indoor temperature as your furnace tries to overcome such frigid air.
If you do notice your heating system not keeping up with your thermostat setting, there are some things you can do to help reduce further temperature loss in your home.
Boil Water Or Make Soup
In addition to providing some extra heat to your home, boiling water and/or making soup on the stove will help add some much needed humidity to your air. Humidity can help you feel more comfortable even at a lower indoor temperature.
Cook With Your Oven
In addition to cooking on the stove, you can also help add an additional boost of heat to your home by preparing a meal in the oven.
NOTE: While the oven can be a great way to help supplement some heat, you SHOULD NOT leave it on for an extended period of time for the sole purpose of heating your home, as this can be very dangerous.
Keep Exterior Doors Closed
This should go without saying, but take that extra step to have garage doors closed and limit the opening of any other exterior doors to keep the arctic air out of your home.
Make Sure All Vents Are Open
Go around your home and make sure that all of your HVAC registers are open and not being blocked or restricted by any furniture or other household items. You’ll want the airflow of your HVAC system to be as uninterrupted as possible for best comfort!
Replace/Clean Your Furnace Filter
Because proper airflow is very important, and your furnace will be working overtime to help overcome any temperature loss in your home, you’ll want to make sure that you know the condition of your furnace filter. Even if it’s only been a few weeks since you last changed it, you’ll benefit by checking it again and making sure that it is clean enough to allow good airflow to pass through. Your furnace will thank you!
TAKE CAUTION WHEN USING SPACE HEATERS: While you may be tempted to use space heaters during this cold snap, always take the necessary precautions when doing so. According to the National Fire Protection Association, space heaters cause 43 percent of home heating fires each year. Always heed to any warnings that your space heater provides and ensure that it is located in a safe location where it can be attended to at all times.
Once the sub-zero wind chills begin to move out and temperatures begin to rise again, you can expect your furnace to then be able to recuperate that temperature loss and start heating your home to more consistent temperatures again.
We hope everyones stays safe and warm this week! If you should have any heating issues during this extreme cold weather, give our experts a call at (866) 259-3509!
