With the recent sweep of intense cold weather in the midwest it is a good time to talk about how to go about heating your home in extreme cold temperatures. When temperatures drop below the average cold it can put a strain on your furnace.
Below we will look at some steps you can take to get through the cold and keep your furnace functioning to the best of it’s ability.
Take Precautions
One of the best things you can do is contact your local HVAC company and have them do any needed furnace maintenance ahead of time. Getting your heating system checked before the cold sets in will save you from last minute breakage. You don’t want to be scrambling the day that the intense weather is supposed to hit, because you suddenly need a furnace repair.
Find Out What Your Furnace Can Handle
You should contact your HVAC contractor and find out what kind of temperatures your furnace is made to handle. Most have a minimum temperature they are made to withstand and after that point they will struggle to keep up with heating your home. Knowing what your residential HVAC system can handle and what it can’t ahead of time will help you to make the proper preparations.
Do Not Turn Your Heat Up
If the cold has reached the point that your furnace cannot keep up with it, the last thing you want to do it continue to try turning your heat up. You want to set it at a more neutral temperature, usually under 70, and leave it there until the cold passes. The temperature in your house will drop, but it will still be considerably warmer than it will be outside.
Employ Other Methods
There are plenty of ways to stay warm other than your furnace. Picking up space heaters and heated blankets can be useful, so long as you use them under proper supervision. You can also use extra blankets and layer up your clothes. Sealing windows can also be helpful as it will help keep cold drafts out.
Utilize Your Local HVAC Company
Your local HVAC company can give you all of the help and information you could possibly need about your furnace and about dealing with extreme temperatures. Speaking with them in advance and utilizing their knowledge is one of the best things you can do. Don’t hesitate to reach out to them so they can help you make your cold weather plans today!