Have you found that your heating system has completely failed you in the dead of winter? If you ever find yourself unexpectedly with no heat, keep warm with these emergency tips until an HVAC specialist arrives at your home. 

Keep Your Remaining Heat from Escaping 

Seal up drafty areas with whatever material you have on hand—be it weatherstripping, draft stoppers, or even rolled-up towels. Focus on windows, door gaps, and any other spots where heat might escape. Minimize opening doors to preserve the heat you have left. Simple measures can go a long way in retaining warmth. 

Space Heaters 

While it may seem obvious, it’s crucial to emphasize safety reasons. Some heaters are designed for use only in open, well-ventilated areas. They produce carbon monoxide, which is extremely dangerous to inhale in enclosed spaces. Only use a heater in your home if it is explicitly intended for indoor use to ensure the safety of you & your household. 

Make Use of the Sun 

Maximize natural heating by keeping blinds & curtains open on windows exposed to the sun. This creates a greenhouse effect, amplifying the sun’s warmth & heating up the area of your house. 

Warm Up from the Inside 

Consuming warm food & drinks can significantly boost your body temperature & provide comfort in a chilly home. Indulge in a cup of tea cocoa, or a comforting bowl of soup to add warmth. 

Homemade Hand & Foot Warmers 

You don’t need to know how to be handy with a sewing machine to do this do-it-yourself craft! A simple solution involves using a sock. Fill it with a cup or so of dry rice, corn, beans, flax seeds, or other small natural dry goods, & tie the end. Pop it in the microwave for a short time—start with 30 seconds & add more time as needed—for cheap, easy, & effective heating pad to warm your hands or feet. Stay warm with this quick & practical DIY solution. 

Raise the Humidity 

Whether using a humidifier or boiling a pot of water on the stovetop, increasing the amount of water vapor in the air can make a noticeable difference. While it may not change the temperature significantly, it helps your body feel warmer. 

Avoid this Problem in the Future 

The most effective way to prevent significant furnace breakdowns is through annual maintenance. This routine service can reduce repair needs by up to 85%, enhance the effectiveness of your furnace, & improve its overall efficiency. Not only that, but it can also extend the lifespan of your furnace. If you're facing a heating emergency or simply want to schedule a tune-up to avoid such situations, reach out to ASP for prompt & professional assistance today.