Cold snaps in Des Moines can strike fast, and when your heating system stops working, it can turn a cozy home into an uncomfortable, even risky, environment, especially for kids, seniors, or anyone sensitive to the cold.
Fortunately, there are safe, practical steps you can take to stay warm and protect your home while waiting for professional help.
With over a decade of trusted HVAC experience, Lenz Heating & Cooling is here to guide you through smart emergency heating tips so you can remain calm, cozy, and confident all winter long.
1. Layer Up and Switch to Warm Bedding
One of the easiest ways to keep the chill at bay indoors is by dressing in layers.
Here’s how:
- Pull on cozy sweaters, thermal socks, and don’t forget a warm hat—your head loses a surprising amount of heat.
- At night, use extra blankets or a sleeping bag to trap body heat.
- Keep a few emergency blankets or portable warming packs on hand for cold snaps in Des Moines.
With warm clothing and bedding ready, you can stay snug while our team works to restore your heating.
2. Block Drafts and Close Off Unused Rooms
Cold air sneaks in through windows, doors, and gaps, making a heating outage feel even colder.
To prevent this:
- Close doors to rooms you aren’t using.
- Use towels or draft stoppers at the base of exterior doors.
- Cover windows with thick curtains or blankets.
- Close fireplace dampers when not in use.
Even small adjustments like these help keep warmth in the spaces you occupy most.
3. Use Safe Alternative Heat Sources
If your main heating system goes down, you can stay warm, but safety comes first.
Safe options:
- Electric space heaters with tip-over protection and auto shut-off, kept at least 3 feet from curtains or furniture.
- Gas or wood fireplaces (ensure the flue is open and working).
- Portable electric blankets monitored closely.
Avoid:
- Heating your home with an oven or stovetop.
- Using outdoor heaters or grills indoors.
- Fuel-burning heaters without proper ventilation.
If it’s not designed for indoor whole-home heating, it’s best to avoid it.
4. Keep Moving to Generate Heat
Moving around helps your body generate heat, so light activity can keep you feeling warmer indoors.
You can try:
- Walking around the house.
- Doing light chores or stretches every 20–30 minutes.
- Playing with kids or pets to stay active.
This boosts circulation and helps you feel warmer in case of a breakdown.
5. Sip Warm Drinks and Eat Hot Meals
Internal heat helps fight cold faster than extra layers alone.
Consider:
- Drinking hot tea, coffee, or cocoa.
- Eating soups or warm meals to maintain energy and body temperature.
- Avoiding alcohol, which may make you feel warm temporarily but actually lowers core body temperature.
By sipping and eating warm foods, you can boost your internal heat and ride out the cold safely.
6. Monitor Vulnerable Household Members
Children, seniors, and those with health conditions can experience cold stress more quickly.
Make sure they have:
- Extra blankets and multiple clothing layers.
- Warm socks and hats.
- Access to heated rooms and warm beverages.
If your home becomes dangerously cold, consider relocating temporarily to a friend’s house or a local warming center.
7. Know When to Call an Emergency HVAC Technician
Certain heating problems aren’t safe to tackle on your own and need a professional touch.
Call Lenz Heating & Cooling immediately if you notice:
- No airflow from vents
- Burning smells or unusual odors
- Repeated system cycling or tripped breakers
- The furnace won’t ignite
- Loud banging or grinding noises
We offer 24/7 emergency heating repair in Des Moines, West Des Moines, Ankeny, Urbandale, Altoona, and surrounding areas—ready to restore warmth within hours.
8. Prevent Future Heating Emergencies
Once your heater is back online, take steps to prevent future cold snaps from catching you off guard.
Here’s what you can do:
- Schedule annual furnace maintenance with Lenz Heating & Cooling.
- Replace filters every 1–3 months.
- Keep vents unblocked and monitor for unusual sounds.
- Sign up for our Service Agreement for priority scheduling, seasonal tune-ups, and exclusive discounts.
A little preparation now can save you from costly repairs later.
Emergency Heating FAQs for Des Moines Homeowners
Why did my heater stop working suddenly?
Common causes include dirty filters, tripped breakers, thermostat issues, or worn-out components. Our team can diagnose and repair quickly.
How can I tell if my furnace is failing?
Signs include uneven heating, strange noises, frequent cycling, or unusual smells. Early detection can prevent a complete breakdown.
How long can I safely stay in a house without heat?
It depends on indoor temperature and your household members’ vulnerability. Temperatures below 50°F for extended periods can lead to hypothermia or other illnesses.
Should I try to restart my furnace myself?
You can safely check breakers, replace filters, verify thermostat settings, and ensure the furnace switch is ON, but avoid opening panels or handling internal parts.
Is it safe to use space heaters while waiting for repair?
Yes—if they have auto shut-off and are placed away from flammable items. Make sure you never leave them unattended.
Do you offer emergency HVAC repair in Des Moines?
Absolutely! Lenz Heating & Cooling serves Des Moines, West Des Moines, Ankeny, Urbandale, Altoona, and surrounding areas 24/7.
Why Des Moines Homeowners Trust Lenz Heating & Cooling
As a family-owned, veteran- and woman-operated business, Lenz Heating & Cooling provides comfort with care.
Here’s why neighbors choose us:
- 24/7 Emergency Service: Fast, reliable response anytime your heating or cooling system fails.
- Trusted Since 2009: Over a decade of professional HVAC service with integrity and excellence.
- Expert Technicians: Background-checked and continuously trained to deliver safe, efficient solutions.
- Flexible Financing: Affordable options for repairs, replacements, or upgrades.
- Service Agreements: Priority service, routine inspections, and savings for members.
Whether it’s a sudden breakdown or a full system replacement, our team treats your home like our own.
Stay Warm & Comfortable With Lenz Heating & Cooling
A heating outage doesn’t have to leave your home freezing. With these tips and the support of Lenz Heating & Cooling, you can stay safe, cozy, and stress-free.
If your heater isn’t working or you want to prevent a winter breakdown, call our expert team at 515-225-6446 or schedule service online anytime.
Reliable, fast, and backed by years of trusted experience—that’s the Lenz Heating & Cooling difference.
