Updated Mar 09, 2025 By Second Plumbing & Heating
As spring approaches, the temperatures can still dip well below freezing, leaving many homeowners dealing with the frustration of a dead furnace. While waiting for repairs, it’s important to stay warm and safe. Here are some practical tips to help you and your family stay cozy until your furnace is back up and running.
1. Use Space Heaters Safely
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Space heaters can be a lifesaver during a furnace outage, but safety is key:
Placement: Keep heaters at least 3 feet away from furniture, curtains, or anything flammable.
Supervision: Never leave them unattended or running overnight.
Type: Opt for modern, energy-efficient models with automatic shut-off features.
2. Layer Up and Bundle Up
Dressing in layers is one of the simplest ways to stay warm:
Clothing: Wear thermal underwear, sweaters, thick socks, and hats indoors.
Bedding: Use extra blankets or thermal comforters to stay warm while sleeping.
Hot Water Bottles: Fill a hot water bottle and place it under your blankets for added warmth.
3. Close Off Unused Rooms
Focus on heating the areas you use most:
Close Doors: Shut doors to unused rooms to concentrate heat in living spaces.
Block Drafts: Use towels or draft stoppers to seal gaps under doors and windows.
4. Maximize Natural Heat
Take advantage of sunlight and insulation:
Open Curtains During the Day: Let sunlight naturally warm your home.
Close Curtains at Night: Use heavy curtains or blankets to trap heat inside.
5. Use Alternative Heat Sources
If you have other heat sources, use them wisely:
Fireplace: If you have a working fireplace, use it to provide additional warmth.
Oven: Avoid using your oven as a heat source, as it can be a fire hazard.
6. Stay Hydrated and Warm from the Inside
Warm beverages and meals can help maintain body heat:
Hot Drinks: Sip on tea, coffee, or hot chocolate.
Soups and Stews: Enjoy warm, hearty meals to keep your body temperature up.
7. Seal Windows and Doors
Prevent cold air from entering your home:
Weather Stripping: Apply temporary weather stripping to drafty windows and doors.
Plastic Film Kits: Use window insulation kits to create an extra barrier against the cold.
8. Check Carbon Monoxide Detectors
If you’re using alternative heat sources, safety is critical:
Test Detectors: Ensure your carbon monoxide detectors are functioning properly.
Ventilation: Never use fuel-burning devices (e.g., generators or grills) indoors.
9. Stay Active
Physical activity can help generate body heat:
Light Exercise: Do light stretches or household chores to keep your blood flowing.
Warm-Up Breaks: Take short breaks to move around if you’ve been sitting for a while.
10. Call a Professional ASAP
While these tips can help in the short term, it’s important to get your furnace repaired as soon as possible. Contact a licensed HVAC technician to diagnose and fix the issue.
A furnace breakdown in cold weather can be stressful, but with these tips, you can stay warm and safe until repairs are completed. Remember, your safety is the top priority—avoid unsafe heating practices and always rely on professionals for furnace repairs.
Stay warm, and don’t hesitate to reach out to Second Plumbing & Heating for all your heating needs. We’re here to help you through the cold snap and ensure your home stays comfortable year-round.
Remember to always follow safety precautions when working with electrical to avoid accidents and injuries.
*** The information provided in this guide is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability with respect to the information contained in this guide. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.
Before attempting any repairs or maintenance on your HVAC system, please ensure you have the necessary skills and knowledge. If you are not confident in your ability to safely and effectively perform the tasks described, we strongly recommend that you contact a licensed professional. We will not be liable for any loss or damage, including but not limited to indirect or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from your use of or reliance on the information in this guide.
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