It is essential to take the necessary precautions in terms of winter HVAC preparedness and make sure that you are ready for any potential HVAC emergency. Every homeowner in Ohio should have a contingency plan prepared to avert a heating crisis if an unforeseen outage happens due to inclement weather. Setting up backup remedies can be incredibly beneficial when things don’t go according to plan. We still have a couple of months of winter left, so it wouldn’t hurt to begin your preparations now!
To make sure you’re prepared for the next snowstorm, Bridgetown Heating & Cooling has gathered these expert tips to help equip you. Don’t become overwhelmed; store our carefully selected advice away today so that you can remain one step ahead of any winter surprises all season long.
HOW DO YOU PREPARE YOUR GAS METER?
Taking proper care of your natural gas meter is vital. To maintain it, never kick or strike the meter with heavy objects in the hopes of shaking off snow buildup, as this could lead to damage to the meter! Utilizing snow blowers should also be refrained from – instead, opt for a brush or broom to gently sweep away any ice and snow built up around the unit. This step should become an integral part of your regular shoveling and blowing routine when dealing with snowfall.
HOW DO YOU PREPARE YOUR HEAT PUMP?
To guarantee your outdoor heat pump runs efficiently during a snowstorm, it is advisable to inspect and remove any accumulated snow or ice. Utilize a broom or shovel to sweep away unwanted material from its surfaces before the storm hits. Moreover, for added protection against excessive load caused by heavy snowfall, make sure you create enough clear space underneath the unit so that melted ice can easily be drained out.
HOW DO YOU PREPARE YOUR OUTDOOR VENTS?
This winter, don’t forget to include your home’s outdoor vents in your snow-removal process! A simple sweep with an outdoor broom will clear away any buildup of ice or snow and will enable the vents to function as they are intended to.
HOW DO YOU PREPARE YOUR INDOOR VENTS?
During winter months, it’s essential to guarantee that your vents are open and accessible. If not, air circulation will become limited in the house, and your heating system won’t be able to keep up with the heating demand properly. Finally, take some time before a snowstorm arrives to double-check if furniture or any objects block the vents.
HOW DO YOU PREPARE A BACKUP PLAN FOR A LACK OF HEAT?
- Generator – Give yourself peace of mind by equipping your home with a backup generator; in case of a power outage, you’ll still be able to use essential electronic items.
- Portable Heater – Ward off the chill by having a few trusty portable heaters nearby. For your safety, however, never leave them unattended to prevent unfortunate accidents!
- Fireplace – It is prudent to maintain an emergency stockpile of firewood and suitable kindling near your hearth; furthermore, keeping matches or lighters close by will provide added security in the event of a power outage.
- Extra Blankets – Don’t forget to stock up on extra blankets and keep them tucked away for moments of surprise, such as your power going out. Gather all the extra blankets you don’t use on the regular together into an emergency bag that’s always accessible so that if the need for them arises, they are easily accessible.
- Window Coverings – To provide an extra means of insulation, it’s vital to draw all blinds and window treatments tightly together. Doing so will help maintain warmth inside the house while shielding you from the harsh weather! Consider layering blankets or towels across windows for additional coverage.
- Exterior Doors – To maintain your home’s warmth, keep the number of times you open and shut exterior doors at a minimum. Doing so will ensure that all of the heat stays inside where it belongs!
Don’t get caught unprepared for winter! At Bridgetown Heating & Cooling, our heating and cooling experts are here to provide you with the resources to beat the bitter chill. When it comes to all your HVAC needs throughout any season of the year, we have got you covered. So, don’t wait until temperatures drop too low—follow these tips now while you still have time! Trust us when we say that preventative measures will keep you well-equipped no matter how cold it gets outside.
You can reach Bridgetown Heating & Cooling today! So, call today at (513) 273-1335, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!