Winter in Anchorage is no joke. With subzero temperatures, heavy snow, and long stretches of darkness, preparing your home for the season is not just about comfort; it’s about safety and efficiency. Last year, we gave you 5 quick tips on keeping your home warm for winter, and this year, we’ve gone even deeper with our list. Taking time now to prep your heating system and make a few energy-smart upgrades will keep your home warm, reduce the risk of breakdowns, and help you avoid sky-high energy bills.
So here is our extended list with some practical ways to get your home ready for Alaska’s coldest months:
1. Schedule a Heating System Tune-Up
Whether you rely on a furnace, boiler, or another heating source, an annual winter tune-up is one of the most important steps you can take. During a tune-up, a certified technician will:
- Inspect burners, heat exchangers, and ignition systems
- Clean internal components
- Check for gas or carbon monoxide leaks
- Test thermostat calibration and system performance
Not only does this minimize the chance of an untimely breakdown when temperatures dip below zero, but it also ensures your system is running as efficiently as possible, saving you money on monthly heating costs.
2. Seal Drafts and Insulate Key Areas
Cold air creeping in through cracks and gaps makes your system work harder. Focus on:
- Adding weatherstripping to exterior doors
- Sealing window frames with caulk
- Using draft stoppers at the base of doors
- Installing thermal or insulated curtains to help trap heat
In Alaska, extra insulation in attics, basements, and crawlspaces is also critical. Even small upgrades can have a big impact on keeping warm air inside where it belongs.
3. Reverse and Adjust Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans aren’t just for summer. By switching the fan direction to rotate clockwise at a low speed, warm air that naturally rises to the ceiling is pushed back down into your living space. This simple adjustment helps maintain an even, comfortable temperature throughout the home without overworking your heating system.
4. Harness Natural Sunlight During the Day
Even in the heart of winter, sunny days in Anchorage can help warm your home. Keep curtains and blinds open during daylight hours to let in natural heat, then close them at night to reduce heat loss. Pairing this with insulated curtains adds another layer of protection once the temperatures drop after sunset.
5. Change Heating System Filters Regularly
A clogged filter forces your system to work harder, straining components and wasting energy. During peak heating season, check filters every month and replace them as needed. Clean filters allow for better airflow, more consistent warmth, and lower energy bills.
6. Protect Pipes from Freezing
When temps plunge, frozen pipes can burst and cause costly water damage. To prevent this:
- Insulate exposed pipes in basements, crawl spaces, and garages
- Keep cabinet doors open to allow warm air around the kitchen and bathroom plumbing
- Let faucets drip slightly during extreme cold snaps to keep water moving
7. Consider a Smart Thermostat Upgrade
Smart thermostats can automatically adjust temperatures based on your schedule and even learn your heating patterns. This ensures your home stays warm when you need it most and conserves energy when you don’t. Some models can also send alerts if your system malfunctions, providing peace of mind during Anchorage’s coldest nights.
Stay Warm, Stay Prepared
By combining professional heating system maintenance with practical home prep, you can tackle winter in Anchorage with confidence. Sealing drafts, insulating, managing airflow, and staying on top of system care all add up to a warmer, safer, and more energy-efficient home.
If you’re ready to schedule your winter heating tune-up or want expert advice on keeping your system running strong through the coldest months, contact Diamond Heating today. We’ve been keeping Anchorage homes warm for over 25+ years and are here to make sure your home is ready for whatever winter throws your way.
