How to Safely Heat Your Home During Power Outages
Losing power in the middle of winter can quickly turn uncomfortable. Staying warm becomes a top priority, but heating your home safely during an outage or while you wait for furnace repair takes some planning and care. A few smart steps can help you stay comfortable without creating unnecessary risks.
Use Portable Heaters Carefully
Portable propane or kerosene heaters can provide valuable warmth when your main heating system is down, but they must be used correctly. Always keep them on a flat, stable surface away from curtains, furniture, or anything flammable. Make sure the room is well-ventilated to prevent carbon monoxide buildup, and never leave these heaters running while you sleep or leave the room.
If you’re using an electric space heater powered by a generator, check that your generator is running outside and connected properly. Overloading extension cords or running generators indoors can lead to dangerous situations.
Keep the Warmth Inside
Preserving the heat you already have is just as important as producing new warmth. Close off unused rooms to trap heat where you need it most. Hang blankets or towels over windows and doors to reduce drafts, and use rugs to insulate bare floors. Wearing layers and bundling up under blankets also helps maintain body heat.
If you have a fireplace or wood stove, this can be a great source of steady heat. Just be sure your chimney or flue is open and unobstructed before lighting a fire, and keep combustible materials at a safe distance.
Avoid Unsafe Heating Methods
It might be tempting to use your oven or stove to heat the house, but that’s never safe. Gas stoves can produce harmful levels of carbon monoxide, and electric ovens pose a serious fire hazard. Likewise, avoid running your car in an attached garage for warmth—the exhaust can quickly fill the space with toxic fumes.
Plan Ahead for Future Outages
The best way to stay safe and comfortable during a power outage is to be ready before it happens. Keep extra blankets, batteries, and flashlights on hand. If your area experiences frequent outages, consider investing in a whole-home generator to keep your heating system running smoothly.
At Guidry's Air Conditioning & Refrigeration, Inc, we help Raceland homeowners stay warm and safe all winter long. Whether you need heating maintenance, system repairs, or a generator installation, our team is ready to help keep your home comfortable when the power goes out. Contact us today to schedule your service.
