Freezing temperatures ahead: Simple ways to keep your home warm this weekend

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — With temperatures expected to fall near or below freezing across parts of the Carolinas this weekend, residents are being encouraged to take a few simple steps to keep their homes warm.

Piedmont Natural Gas says heating systems will be working harder as temperatures drop, especially in homes where the heat has not been used much this season.

Jason Wheatley, a spokesperson for Piedmont Natural Gas, says preparing before the cold weather arrives can make a difference.

“So the forecasts are calling for some pretty low temperatures coming up going into this weekend and into next week. Lows down around freezing or even below freezing,” Wheatley said.

The company recommends several steps residents can take to help their heating systems work more efficiently.

1. Adjust your thermostat

Wheatley recommends setting your thermostat to the lowest comfortable temperature.

The greater the difference between the temperature inside your home and the temperature outside, the harder your heating system must work.

Residents with programmable or smart thermostats can adjust their settings while sleeping or away from home.

2. Let the sunshine in

Opening curtains and blinds during sunny winter days can help naturally warm your home.

At night, closing them can help reduce heat loss through windows.

3. Check your air filters

A dirty air filter can make a heating system work harder.

Piedmont recommends checking and replacing filters regularly to help maintain airflow and heating efficiency.

4. Seal drafts around windows and doors

Small gaps around windows and doors can allow warm air to escape and cold air to enter.

Wheatley recommends using weatherstripping or caulk to seal openings before temperatures drop.

“Also, just weather stripping, sealing any gaps around your doors or windows to prevent leaks. That keeps the warm air from getting out and also keeps the cold air from getting in,” Wheatley said.

5. Change the direction of ceiling fans

Piedmont recommends setting ceiling fans to rotate clockwise during colder weather.

At a low speed, this can help circulate warm air that collects near the ceiling.

6. Check your water heater settings

The company recommends setting water heaters to 120 degrees Fahrenheit to reduce unnecessary energy use.

Residents should follow their water heater manufacturer’s instructions when making adjustments.

Preparing before temperatures drop

Wheatley says some of the most effective preparations are also among the simplest.

“So some of those energy efficiency or energy saving measures that I mentioned are quick fixes to things like air filters or weather stripping, sealing your home,” Wheatley said.

He encourages residents to make those adjustments before the cold weather arrives rather than waiting until heating systems are working harder.

Residents can find additional energy-efficiency information through Piedmont Natural Gas.