Any Big Blizzard Could Mean A Power Outage — Are You Ready?

In northeast Ohio, power outages are not only inconvenient — they can be dangerous. There’s no telling when inclement weather could take the power out, so it helps to be prepared. Stack Heating & Cooling has some advice for getting through a power outage unscathed.

• Make sure you have a good supply of batteries, flashlights and candles.
• Keep a backup heat source on hand, such as a kerosene heater or fireplace. Make sure the room you use it in is well ventilated.
• Insulate pipes to prevent freezing, bursting and possible flooding. This can result in extremely expensive property damage.
• If the power goes out and your pipes do freeze, take off the insulation and open all your faucets. Pour hot water over the pipes, starting at the most frozen point, or carefully heat them with a hair dryer.
• Upgrade your insulation to prevent heat loss through your walls and ceiling.
• Keep the freezer as fully stocked as possible. During a power outage, a stocked freezer will stay cold about 24 hours longer than an emptier one.
• Keep all electronics unplugged when they’re not in use, as irregular electrical currents can cause damage. Make sure your most sensitive electronics, such as computers, are guarded with surge protectors.
• Put in storm windows, or put plastic on the insides of windows to retain heat as long as possible.
• Seal air leaks in the building, which can waste precious indoor heat. Weatherstripping can help around window and door frames. Caulk can help with cracks around plumbing or piping penetrations.
• If you lose power during a blizzard, snowdrifts can serve as makeshift coolers. Be sure to protect your food from animals.
• Consider purchasing an automatic standby generator, which can sense the moment the regular electricity supply goes out during a power outage, and immediately kicks on. This way you won’t lose food and can continue cooking, your pipes won’t be at risk of freezing and you can stay warm and comfortable.

If you’re interested in a standby generator or upgraded insulation to retain heat during a power outage, call Stack Heating & Cooling. We’ll be happy to help.

Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  For more information about power outages and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.

Stack Heating services Cleveland, Ohio and the surrounding areas. Visit our website to see our special offers and get started today!