How To Heat Home When Furnace Goes Out

How to Heat Your Home When the Furnace Goes Out

A furnace breakdown in the middle of winter can be a real nightmare. Suddenly, your cozy home turns into an icy palace, leaving you shivering and scrambling for solutions. Don't panic! This guide provides practical steps to keep warm until your furnace is repaired, covering both short-term and longer-term solutions.

Immediate Actions: Staying Warm Quickly

When your furnace unexpectedly quits, your priority is to stay warm and safe. Here's what to do immediately:

1. Dress Warmly:

• Layer up: Put on multiple layers of clothing, including thermal underwear, sweaters, socks, and a hat. This traps your body heat much more effectively than a single thick layer.
• Use warm blankets and comforters: Pile on blankets to create a warm cocoon. Consider using heavier blankets like wool or fleece.

2. Gather in One Room:

• Centralize: Concentrate your family and pets in one room to conserve heat. This makes it easier to keep that specific area warm and comfortable.
• Close off unused rooms: Close doors and vents to other rooms to prevent heat from escaping.

3. Utilize Available Heat Sources:

• Space heaters: Electric space heaters provide immediate warmth but are best used with caution. Ensure proper ventilation and never leave them unattended.
• Fireplace or wood stove (if applicable): If you have a fireplace or wood stove, use it to generate warmth, provided it's safely operable and you have sufficient fuel. Always follow safety guidelines for fireplace use.
• Oven (with caution): As a last resort, a slightly opened oven can offer some warmth. Never leave it unattended and ensure good ventilation. This method should only be used for very short durations.

Longer-Term Solutions: Maintaining Warmth Until Repair

While immediate actions provide temporary relief, you'll need longer-term strategies until your furnace is repaired.

1. Contact a Heating Professional Immediately:

• Schedule repair: Contact a qualified HVAC technician as soon as possible. Explain the situation clearly and inquire about estimated repair times. Many companies offer emergency services.
• Get multiple quotes: If possible, compare quotes from several professionals to ensure you are getting a fair price.

2. Maintain Heat in Your Chosen Room:

• Insulation: Improvise insulation by using blankets, towels, or even rolled-up newspapers to seal any gaps around doors and windows.
• Curtains and blinds: Keep curtains and blinds closed during the day to prevent heat loss through windows.
• Hot drinks: Warm beverages like tea, coffee, or hot chocolate can help raise your body temperature.

3. Consider Alternative Heating Methods:

• Portable heaters: If you don't already have one, consider investing in a portable electric heater for future use. Just remember to exercise caution to prevent accidents.
• Alternative fuel sources (if appropriate): If you have a backup heating system or alternative fuel sources (like propane or kerosene), consult the instruction manual and use them carefully according to the safety guidelines.

Preventing Future Furnace Problems

Regular maintenance is key to preventing furnace breakdowns.

• Annual inspection: Schedule an annual inspection by a qualified technician to identify and address potential problems before they become major issues.
• Air filter maintenance: Regularly changing your furnace's air filter helps ensure optimal performance and prevents strain on the system.

By following these tips, you can effectively manage a furnace breakdown, maintain warmth in your home, and prevent similar issues in the future. Remember safety is paramount – always prioritize safe practices when using alternative heating methods.