If experiencing no heat in your home at all, call us immediately, then read the rest of this article: 907-202-7927
When the temperature drops in Anchorage, Alaska, the last thing you want is to find yourself without heat. Whether it’s a sudden furnace failure, a broken boiler, or a malfunctioning water heater, the cold can become dangerous very quickly. While waiting for emergency heating assistance, your priority should be staying safe and keeping warm until help arrives. Here are some practical steps to take if you find yourself in this situation.
1. Call for Emergency Heating Assistance Immediately
The moment you realize your heating system isn’t working, call Diamond Heating’s 24/7 emergency service. Quick action ensures you’re at the top of the queue for assistance. Make sure to provide all relevant details to the technician, including the type of heating system you have and any error codes or issues you’ve noticed. This can help speed up the repair process.
2. Seal Off Unused Rooms to Conserve Heat
Depending on the extremity of the situation, close doors to rooms you’re not using to keep the cold out and trap existing heat in the areas where your family is staying. Focus on one or two rooms to concentrate your heating efforts. Use towels or blankets to block gaps under doors, which can help prevent drafts and retain warmth.
3. Layer Up with Warm Clothing
Dressing in layers is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to stay warm. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat away from your skin, followed by insulating layers like fleece or wool, and finish with a windproof outer layer if needed. In extreme heat loss circumstances, don’t forget to wear hats, gloves, and socks—keeping your extremities warm is key to staying comfortable.
4. Use Alternative Heat Sources Safely
If you have a fireplace, wood stove, or portable space heater, now is the time to use them. However, be cautious:
- Fireplaces: Ensure the chimney is clean and the damper is open. Never leave a fire unattended, and make sure you have a screen to prevent sparks from escaping.
- Space Heaters: Place them on a flat, non-flammable surface and keep them at least three feet away from anything that can catch fire. Never use a gas stove or oven to heat your home—it’s a fire hazard and can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. If in need of a space heater, we can provide one if you’re in a pinch!
5. Check for Drafts and Block Them
Walk around your home and check for drafts coming from windows, doors, and even electrical outlets. You can temporarily block drafts using rolled-up towels, blankets, or even plastic sheeting. This will help keep the cold air out and maintain the temperature in your living space.
6. Stay Hydrated and Eat Warm Foods
Staying hydrated is crucial, even in cold weather. Drink warm beverages like tea, coffee, or hot chocolate to help maintain your body temperature. Eating warm, nutritious meals can also give your body the energy it needs to generate heat. Soups, stews, and other hot meals are great options.
7. Use Body Heat to Your Advantage
If you’re with family members or pets (Warning: spouses and children may use this as a ploy to talk you into more pets), stay close together to share body heat. If possible, huddle under blankets or in a confined space to keep the warmth concentrated. This can make a significant difference, especially during extended periods without heat.
8. Stay Active—But Don’t Overexert Yourself
Light physical activity, like moving around or doing gentle exercises, can help keep your blood circulating and warm you up. However, avoid strenuous activity that could lead to sweating, as this can make you feel colder once you stop moving.
9. Prepare an Emergency Kit for the Future
While you’re waiting for help to arrive, take note of any supplies you’re missing that could make future situations more manageable. An emergency kit should include items like blankets, extra layers of clothing, a battery-powered radio, flashlights, non-perishable food, bottled water, and backup heat sources like hand warmers or space heaters.
No one wants to be left in the cold, but if your heating system fails during an Anchorage winter, following these steps can help you stay safe (and comfortable) while waiting for Diamond Heating’s 24/7 emergency assistance. Remember, quick action and proper preparation can make all the difference in ensuring you and your loved ones remain warm and secure until your heat is restored.
If you’re experiencing a heating emergency or want to prevent one in the future, don’t hesitate to contact Diamond Heating for expert advice and services tailored to Anchorage’s unique climate. Stay warm, stay safe, and let us help you get your home back to comfort as quickly as possible.
