Preparing For Extreme Cold Weather

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – A cold snap is expected across the Tennessee Valley this weekend, and residents are being reminded of ways to preserve energy and stay warm indoors.

Sealing doors and windows with weather stripping or adding insulation can help prevent heat from escaping. Nate Thomasson of EPB said:

“A lot of people’s misconception is is that you know cold air is coming into their house you know and building science teaches us that it’s actually heat going to the cold so any weather stripping on the doors anymore insulating you can do is definitely gonna help right now”

Using space heaters can provide supplemental warmth, but lower-wattage models with built-in safety features are recommended when other heat sources are available. Thomasson added:

“Some things that we see right now during cold weather are like people using space heaters when their HVAC system still working so you know if you do have to use space heaters and you don’t have any other type of heat source. We recommend a using lower wattage model space heaters with Built in safety features”

Layering clothing, using blankets, and keeping frequently used rooms warm are effective ways to maintain comfort while conserving energy. Thomasson also noted:

“If the roads are really really icy and there’s a lot of snow on the roads you know stay at home if you can you cus a lot of times cars and people accidentally slide into power poles and cause power outages, you know and if you are at home, you know, going back to using the extra layers any warm blankets that you have”

For households concerned about power outages, crews are prepared to respond around the clock.

“When we’re expecting this weather that’s coming. It’s all hands-on deck so we’ll have crews and people around the clock you know on standby prepared to come out and take care of any outages that we might have,” Thomasson added.

Apps like MyEPB can be used to report outages, which helps ensure a timely response during frigid conditions. Additional energy-saving steps include lowering thermostat settings gradually, keeping exterior doors closed, and checking weather stripping for leaks.

Taking these precautions can help residents maintain warmth efficiently while conserving energy during the weekend’s extreme cold.