Winter can be harsh, and nothing is worse than realizing that your furnace needs repair during the coldest time of the year. But fret not! Valley Home Services, your trusted HVAC experts in Ottawa and Arnprior, are here to share some valuable tips on how to stay warm while waiting for furnace repair.
How To Stay Warm While Waiting For Furnace Repair: Tips from Valley Home Services in Ottawa and Arnprior
Layer Up
When your furnace breaks down, it's time to bring out those cozy layers. Wear multiple thin layers of clothing, as they trap heat better than one thick layer. Tops should include long-sleeved shirts and sweaters, while bottoms should include pants, leggings, thermal underwear, and/or long skirts. Don't forget to cover your head, hands, and feet to minimize heat loss from these extremities. Hats, gloves, scarves, and warm socks or slippers are all good options. Layering can help keep you cozy on those chilly days when the furnace doesn't work.
Utilize Space Heaters
When using portable space heaters to maintain warmth in specific areas of your home, it is important to follow safety guidelines. These guidelines include keeping the heater away from any flammable materials, such as furniture, curtains, and clothing, as well as keeping it on a flat and level surface. Additionally, the space heater should not be left unattended, and it should be unplugged when not in use. Additionally, it is suggested to keep children and pets away from the space heater. Lastly, it is important to check the heater for any signs of damage before each use. Following these guidelines will help ensure your safety when using a space heater.
Insulate Your Space
To retain heat and reduce energy costs, insulate your home as much as possible. This can be done by adding insulation to the walls and attic, as well as sealing any air leaks around windows and doors. Additionally, use draft stoppers on doors and windows to prevent cold air from entering. You can also hang thick curtains or blankets over windows to provide an extra layer of insulation. Consider investing in energy-efficient windows and doors to further improve the insulation of your home.
Gather in One Room
If possible, gather your family members or roommates in one room and close the doors. This can help keep the heat in the room, making it easier to warm the space. Body heat can also help increase the overall temperature in the room, keeping everyone warmer. If you have a small space heater, you can use it to help warm the room as well. Make sure to keep any open flames away from flammable materials and keep a close eye on them while in use.
Hot Beverages and Warm Meals
Sip on hot beverages like tea, coffee, or hot chocolate to warm yourself from the inside out. Enjoy a warm cup of tea or coffee in the morning or in the evening to warm yourself up. Try adding a splash of your favorite flavored creamer or milk to your hot beverage for an extra flavorful treat. Additionally, enjoy warm meals cooked on the stove or in the oven to generate additional heat in your home. Try making a hearty soup, stew, or chili in a slow cooker to fill your home with the delicious aromas of a home-cooked meal. Bake some delicious treats like cookies or muffins to make your kitchen smell like a bakery. For another comforting meal, try baking a lasagna or a casserole in the oven.
Use Electric Blankets and Hot Water Bottles
Electric blankets and hot water bottles are great ways to stay warm when your furnace is not functioning properly. They provide a steady and comforting warmth, helping you to feel cozy while you wait for a repair technician to arrive. Electric blankets come in a variety of sizes and styles, and they can be used on beds or chairs. Hot water bottles are inexpensive and easy to use, and they can be filled with hot water to provide heat for several hours. Both electric blankets and hot water bottles are excellent options for staying warm when your furnace is out of service.
Plan a Temporary Stay
If the weather outside is cold, snowy, or otherwise particularly harsh and you are facing a situation where your furnace repair might take some time, it is important to consider alternative arrangements for your comfort and safety. Staying with friends, family, or booking a nearby hotel are all viable options that you should explore while you wait for your furnace to be repaired. This way, you can be sure that you won't be left out in the cold while the repair is taking place.
Contact Valley Home Services today!
Experiencing a furnace breakdown during the colder months can be overwhelming, but with these tips from Valley Home Services, you can stay warm while waiting for your furnace repair. Remember to prioritize safety, layer up, use space heaters, insulate your space, gather in one room, and enjoy hot beverages and warm meals. And if the situation becomes unbearable, don't hesitate to plan a temporary stay elsewhere. Stay warm, stay safe!
When you need reliable furnace repair in Ottawa and Arnprior, Valley Home Services is here to help. Our team of experienced technicians can diagnose your furnace’s issues and have it running efficiently in no time. We provide round-the-clock emergency services and offer comprehensive maintenance plans to ensure your heating system is functioning optimally. Contact us today for top-notch furnace repair services and reliable HVAC solutions.