Have you told your furnace how much you love it lately?

We’ve been warned to prepare for the record cold temperatures over the next few days.  There’s something here about honoring all those threats about “when hell freezes over!”  Since I know you are all upstanding citizens, the finest society has to offer, I won’t ask what was said.  But I will offer some tips to help you bear (get it) through this polar vortex.

Here are a few tips for cold weather:

1. Check your thermostat and raise the number a few degrees until you are comfortable. My heating guys have told me it’s just a number. The thermostat will only respond to the area it is located in. So if your thermostat is in the hall and your son’s bedroom is cold, don’t be afraid to bump it up.  Rooms not in use can have doors shut while others may need to be left open to allow air to circulate.  You will hear other tips suggesting to shut down the vents in rooms, to heat others.  I am against this as it throws a home out of balance, and that keeps it from heating properly.
2. Check your furnace air filters to make sure they are clean. You should check these regularly, start with every three months and if you have pets more frequently.  Clogged filters restrict air movement and make your furnace work harder.
3. We’ve all found ourselves standing in front of the fridge staring with the door open. Same goes for exterior doors-don’t do it, keep them closed as much as possible.  No penguins!  Extra points to anyone who knows where that came from.
4. Make sure air vents and radiators are not blocked or obstructed.
5. Cook as much at home, it’s a great way to spend time with the family, and you can recapture the heat.  Time to make that chili, pea soup, or cookies…hint: we love blueberry pie.  BUT DO NOT use your oven or a grill to heat your home!
6. Lastly, snuggle under a warm blanket and catch up on your reading or favorite movies. Remember, it’s Chicago weather this too shall pass. Where else can the outdoor temp change 40-50 degrees in a day or so.

Countdown to Spring

If you need inspiration check out this count down to spring!