The arrival of winter brings more than just warm clothes—it brings a significant drop in temperature that puts extra stress on your home’s electrical and heating systems. At Goods Electric, Heating & Air, our goal is to ensure your family stays bright, safe, and comfortable all season long.
To help you navigate the cold months stress-free, we’ve put together our top five winter preparedness tips for every homeowner.
1. Check Your Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
With the windows closed and the furnace running at full capacity, indoor air safety is a top priority. Cold weather means increased furnace use, which naturally carries a higher risk of carbon monoxide issues.
- Action Step: Test your detectors monthly and replace batteries immediately if they chirp or fail a test.
2. Practice Space Heater Safety
Space heaters are great for targeted warmth, but they are high-draw appliances. To avoid electrical fires or tripped breakers, never plug a space heater into a power strip or extension cord.
- Action Step: Always plug space heaters directly into a wall outlet and keep them at least three feet away from flammable materials like curtains or bedding.
3. Schedule a Professional Furnace Tune-Up
A well-maintained heating system is both safer and more affordable to run. Routine checks prevent mid-winter breakdowns that always seem to happen on the coldest nights of the year.
- Action Step: Schedule a system check-up to ensure your furnace is running at peak efficiency.
4. Seal Drafts Around Windows and Doors
Don’t pay to heat the outdoors! Small gaps around window frames and door sweeps can let significant amounts of warm air escape, forcing your heater to work overtime.
- Action Step: Use weatherstripping or caulk to seal drafts. This simple DIY fix can noticeably improve your comfort and lower your energy bills.
5. Protect Your Home from Power Surges
Winter storms often bring high winds and heavy ice, which can lead to power fluctuations and surges. These surges can damage sensitive electronics and expensive appliances.
- Action Step: Consider installing a whole-home surge protector for total peace of mind during the stormy season.
We’re Here to Handle the Rest!
From seasonal maintenance to year-end check-ups, the team at Goods Electric, Heating & Air is committed to making your winter stress-free. Whether you need a professional furnace inspection or help securing your electrical system, we are just a call away.
Wishing you a bright, safe, and comfortable winter!
Need assistance before the big freeze? > Contact us a call today to ensure your home is in perfect shape for the season.