Last year, extreme weather and climate disasters added up to around $1 billion in damages! Unpredictable winters highlight the need for reliable heating solutions. As extreme weather events become more common, knowing how to keep your home warm during unusually cold spells is necessary for comfort and safety.
1. Heat Pump Backup Systems
While heat pumps are typically efficient, they can struggle in extreme cold. Installing a dual-fuel system that combines a heat pump with a gas furnace backup provides the best of both worlds. The heat pump handles moderate temperatures efficiently, while the furnace kicks in automatically when temperatures plummet, giving you consistent warmth without excessive energy use.
2. Infrared Space Heaters
Unlike traditional space heaters that warm the air, infrared heaters directly heat objects in a room, similar to how sunlight works. They’re particularly effective in well-insulated spaces and can provide instant warmth without waiting for the air temperature to rise. Position them in frequently used areas for targeted heating that doesn’t waste energy heating empty spaces. We encourage you to be mindful of how you can conserve energy, instead of wasting it.
3. Ductwork Zoning Systems
Converting your existing HVAC system to a zoned system allows for precise temperature control throughout your home. By installing automated dampers in your ductwork and separate thermostats for different areas, you can direct more heat to colder rooms while reducing it in naturally warmer spaces or less-used areas.
4. Smart Thermostat Optimization
Modern smart thermostats can do more than basic programming. They can learn your schedule, adjust to weather forecasts, and manage multi-zone heating systems. During unusually cold weather, they can pre-heat your home before temperature drops and maintain different temperatures in various rooms based on usage patterns, optimizing both comfort and efficiency.
5. Radiant Floor Heating Supplements
While installing a complete radiant floor heating system is a major project, you can add electric radiant floor mats in key areas like bathrooms or kitchens. These systems provide consistent heat from the ground up, eliminating cold spots and creating a comfortable environment even when central heating struggles with extreme temperatures.
6. Window Insulation Systems
Beyond basic weatherstripping, you can install cellular shades or thermal curtains that create an insulating air pocket between windows and your living space. For severe cold snaps, temporary window insulation kits that add a layer of heat-shrinking plastic can dramatically reduce heat loss through windows, which are typically the biggest source of thermal leakage in homes. This can often occur on upper floors that might struggle to get heated properly.
7. Whole-House Humidification
Dry winter air feels colder than humid air at the same temperature. A whole-house humidifier connected to your HVAC system can maintain appropriate humidity levels throughout your home. Proper humidity makes the air feel warmer and also reduces the amount of heat needed to maintain comfort, as moist air retains heat better than dry air.
Some methods, like thermal mass solutions and window insulation, require minimal investment and can be implemented quickly. Others, such as dual-fuel systems or whole-house humidification, represent longer-term investments. The key is creating an approach to heating that can adapt to various levels of cold while maintaining efficiency and comfort.
If you have any questions about your heating system, please get in touch with us today.