How to Keep Warm During Extreme Cold Weather

We receive countless calls every time the temperatures drop below normal ranges, as homeowners here in Washington encounter problems with their home’s heating system.

With the record-low temperatures and extreme conditions most of the country is currently experiencing, our All Seasons Heating professionals want to share some insights and tips with you to keep your indoors cozy while Old Man Winter blusters away outdoors.

Three Heating System Insights

Here are a few insights into your heating system’s operation during freezing weather:

1.  Furnaces, boilers, and heat pumps were not designed for temperatures in the -20 to -30 degrees Fahrenheit (and below) range—they were designed for outdoor temperatures dipping to 0 degrees.

When windchills are near the temperatures we are experiencing right now, your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system will work much harder than usual. Keep in mind that you cannot expect it to perform normally, and you may run into some problems with it.

2.  Even though your heating system is working at full capacity, if your Yakima, home is newer, your HVAC system may still struggle to maintain your designated temperature and may not always succeed.

If your home is older, your system will likely not be able to maintain the target temperature, compromising your comfort. Expect to bundle up a little more.

3.  If you discover your home’s temperature dropping, but your vents are blowing hot air, or your boiler’s radiators are still hot, this is simply due to the extreme outdoor temperatures. Just continue to be sure your heating system is operating.

What Are Some Heating System Tips?

Be sure to stay safe by using common sense in these frigid temperatures. These outdoor conditions tempt homeowners to take unwise and unsafe steps, with avoidably tragic results like fires or carbon monoxide poisoning.

Here are some of our best heating system tips:

•   Increase your home’s temperature by a couple of degrees above your normal setting now, before the worst hits, and then leave your thermostat alone. Do not turn it back down at night. In this extreme cold, your heating system will struggle to return to where you originally had it set.

•   Replace your filter if you have a furnace. Ideally, in the winter months, especially during these ultra-cold spells, you should change the filter monthly.

•   If your ceiling fans have the reverse setting for colder months, be sure the blades are moving clockwise to keep the warm air moving.

•   If necessary, set one room in your home to be the warmest room. Close any blinds or drapes to keep warmth in, and put blankets over your windows using your curtain rod to reduce window heat loss.

•   Check all registers/air vents and radiators are clear of any obstructions or blockages. Keep furniture away to allow the best airflow.

•   Keep your garage doors closed.

•   Avoid repeatedly opening/closing exterior doors.

•   Continually check your furnace’s or boiler’s intake and exhaust white PVC pipes outdoors (on the back or side of your home). It’s extremely common for ice to build up in these with low temperatures or snow to block the openings from all the blowing.

Keep the pipes clear for successful airflow. Push a broom handle in the pipe to break up any internal ice; however, if your pipes are located on your roof, do not go on your roof to clear them.

•   Keep your outdoor condenser clear of snow if you have a heat pump.

•   Cooking, baking, or even boiling water can help heat your home. This adds extra humidity and warm temperatures to your indoor air. However, it is extremely dangerous to heat your home with an oven, stove, or grill.

•   Be sure to keep your cupboard doors open where your plumbing is located to allow your heat to keep your pipes warmed. The last thing you want is frozen or burst pipes.

In these extreme temperatures, keep all your indoor faucets on a constant trickle with room-temperature water. This also helps to prevent frozen or burst pipes.

•   Check on neighbors or anyone elderly in this freezing weather to be sure they are safe and warm.

Contact Us Today for Your Heating Needs

At All Seasons Heating, we want to help you keep your Yakima, home comfortable in these record-low temperatures and arctic weather. Follow our tips for keeping your heating system in operation. If you encounter any problems, please contact us at 509-248-6380 or request service online. Let’s all help each other during this biting cold weather.