5 Furnace Tips For Below Zero Cold Snaps
The deep freeze is set to creep into Wisconsin this week. To help you prepare, we’re sharing five essential tips to keep your furnace running reliably—and what to do if you need a replacement, even as temperatures dip near zero.
5 Cold Weather Furnace Tips
Here are some recommendations on how you can care for your home’s HVAC system during extreme cold temperatures:
Check Furnace Air Filter
An older filter full of dust, pet dander, and other particles will cause your HVAC to work harder because of decreased air flow. By changing your filter, you will likely increase airflow through your system allowing warm air to better circulate on cold days.
Lower the Thermostat a Few Degrees
When it is extremely cold out, we recommend that you drop your thermostat several degrees less than your normal temperature. This simple practice reduces strain on your HVAC on the coldest days.
Run Furnace Fan to Keep Air Circulating
Continuously running your HVAC fan creates more even distribution of air helping to reduce cold or hots spots. It also ensures filtered air is circulated more regularly.
Keep Exhaust Vents Clear
Your HVAC is vented to the outside of your home. If you have a ground level exhaust vent make sure you check all vents to keep them clear of snow or ice. Accumulating snow or melting water can freeze over night and clog your vents. Additionally, furnace exhaust air can condensate creating icicles and ice stalagmites that could further impede air flow. Just to be safe, make sure they are free of blockages.
HVAC System Might Not Keep Up
Depending on how cold it is outside, you may not be able to turn up your thermostat as high as you would like. Furnaces are rated to perform with a certain efficiency and can’t always keep up with the heat loss for a home when exterior temperatures are lowest. Occasionally, homeowners will add localized comfort with the use of temporary space heaters to keep specific rooms extra warm.
Do you feel like your HVAC isn’t ready to tackle extreme Wisconsin weather? Get in touch with Pharo Heating & Cooling today!
Emergency Tips for Cold Snaps
When temperatures plummet unexpectedly, your furnace may struggle to keep up with demand. In emergency situations, focus on heat conservation by closing off unused rooms, sealing drafty windows with plastic sheeting, and using door draft stoppers. If your furnace stops working entirely, contact an emergency HVAC service immediately while using alternative heat sources like space heaters (maintaining safe distances from flammable materials). Keep faucets dripping to prevent pipe freezing until professional help arrives, and consider relocating to a heated location if temperatures in your home drop to unsafe levels.
Boost Energy Efficiency During Winter
Maximizing your furnace’s efficiency can significantly reduce heating costs during Wisconsin winters. Install a programmable thermostat that automatically lowers temperatures when you’re sleeping or away from home. Ensure all vents are unobstructed by furniture or rugs to allow proper airflow throughout your home. Add weatherstripping around doors and windows to prevent heat loss, and consider upgrading your attic insulation, which can reduce heating costs by up to 20%. Simple habits like opening curtains on south-facing windows during sunny days and closing them at night can harness natural heat while preventing nighttime heat loss.
Regular HVAC Maintenance for Winter
Scheduling professional furnace maintenance before winter arrives can prevent costly emergency repairs during the coldest months. A qualified technician will inspect electrical connections, test safety controls, check heat exchangers for cracks, clean burners, and calibrate your thermostat. This comprehensive service not only ensures your system runs efficiently but also identifies potential problems before they escalate into major issues. Between professional visits, remember to change your air filter monthly during heavy-use winter months and keep exterior vents clear of snow, ice, and debris that could restrict airflow.
Winter Safety Tips for Your Furnace
Carbon monoxide dangers increase during winter when homes are sealed tight against the cold. Install carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home and check batteries monthly. Keep the area around your furnace clear of stored items, particularly flammable materials like paint, gasoline, or cleaning supplies. Never use oven heat to warm your home, as this creates serious fire and carbon monoxide hazards. If you smell gas or suspect a furnace malfunction, leave your home immediately and call your gas company or HVAC professional from a safe location.
Prepare for Winter Storms
Power outages during winter storms can quickly lead to dangerous home temperatures. Develop an emergency heating plan that includes alternative heat sources like generators (used only outdoors), properly maintained fireplaces, or indoor-safe portable heaters. Stock emergency supplies including blankets, warm clothing, non-perishable food, and battery-powered lighting. Consider installing surge protectors to safeguard your HVAC equipment from power fluctuations when electricity is restored. For extended power outages, know how to safely drain your home’s water system to prevent pipe bursts, and familiarize yourself with your furnace’s restart procedures for when power returns.
ABOUT US
Pharo Heating & Cooling is a full-service HVAC contractor in Madison. Our team provides top quality service for new construction and replacement furnace and air conditioner needs. For more information about annual furnace inspection or concerns, give us a call at 608-849-5410 or submit a contact form through our website.
