Stay Warm and Prepared: Cardinal’s Guide to Winter Storms and HVAC

When winter unleashes its fury, and the snowstorm sweeps in, you need to be ready to face the challenges that come with it. At Cardinal Heating & Air, we understand the importance of staying warm and comfortable even when the power goes out. That’s why we’re here to help you prepare for the worst of the winter season. Here’s what you need to do before and during a winter storm to ensure your home remains a cozy haven.

Before the Storm Hits

• Secure Your Home: Check your windows and doors for any leaks or gaps that could let precious heat escape. A well-sealed home is your first line of defense against the cold.
• Get a Generator: Power outages can be a major concern during winter storms. Invest in a dual-fuel generator to ensure you have a reliable source of heating even when the electricity is down.
• Propane Heater: A propane heater is a smart addition to your emergency kit. They’re safe for indoor use and can provide much-needed warmth during power outages. Don’t forget to test it beforehand!
• Emergency Contacts: Keep essential numbers within easy reach. Include your trusted HVAC company, like Cardinal Heating & Air, along with emergency services. You’ll be glad you did if your heating system needs attention during the storm.
• Stock Up: Gather firewood to last throughout the storm and fill containers with drinking water. And don’t overlook filling up your bathtubs and sinks for additional water storage.
• Preemptive Heating: If you receive a storm warning, set your HVAC or furnace to a higher temperature in your home. The warmer it is initially, the longer it will take to cool down, giving you a buffer of warmth.

During the Storm

When the winter storm is in full force, your focus should be on minimizing heat loss and ensuring your family’s safety.

• Seal It Tight: Keep your exterior doors and windows shut tightly to prevent heat from escaping. If you must go outside, use an airlock like a porch or garage to minimize cold air infiltration.
• Draft Protection: Block drafts by placing rolled-up towels at the base of exterior doors and drafty windows. Hang blankets over windows and doorways for added insulation.
• Close Blinds and Curtains: Shutting blinds and curtains can help insulate windows and reduce heat loss.
• Basement Retreat: Consider retreating to the basement during a power outage. Despite being cooler normally, basements benefit from ground insulation, making them a warmer option compared to the frigid air outside.

Conserving Heat During a Power Outage

If you’re facing an extended power outage, maximize heat conservation.

• Single-Room Living: Stay in a single room to conserve heat. Choose a room far from prevailing winds, and preferably one that naturally stays warmer, like a living room with a fireplace.
• Insulate Further: Hang blankets over doors and windows to create an additional insulating layer. You can use duct tape to secure blankets over windows.

Adding Heat Safely

Once you’ve minimized heat loss, you can safely add heat to your home.

• Use Your Fireplace or Wood Stove: If you have one, fire it up and keep it burning. Burn wood at intervals to conserve fuel.
• Propane Heaters: Indoor propane heaters can provide reliable heat during outages. Be cautious when using open flames, and ensure proper ventilation.

Stay warm, safe, and prepared during winter storms with Cardinal Heating & Air by your side. We’re your trusted HVAC experts, ready to ensure your home remains comfortable even in the harshest conditions. Contact us at (425) 827-9997, and let us be your heating and cooling partner.