Winter storms in Minnesota can be unpredictable—and power outages during extreme cold are not just inconvenient, they can be dangerous. Without heat, your home’s temperature can drop quickly, putting your family at risk of hypothermia, frozen pipes, and other cold-weather hazards.
At Four Seasons Air Specialists, we’ve been helping White Bear Lake families stay safe and warm since 1974. Here’s how to prepare for a power outage in cold weather so you’re not left out in the cold.
🔌 1. Know Your Risks and Have a Plan
Before the next winter storm hits, take some time to plan ahead.
✅ Start with these basics:
- Sign up for local emergency alerts (via NOAA or local news apps)
- Identify safe heat sources in your home
- Create a contact list of family, neighbors, or nearby shelters
- Make sure everyone in your household knows what to do during an outage
📝 Write down your plan and keep a printed copy in your emergency kit.
🧰 2. Create a Cold-Weather Emergency Kit
Having the right supplies on hand can make a huge difference if the power goes out for hours—or even days.
📦 Your winter power outage kit should include:
- Extra blankets, sleeping bags, and warm clothing
- Flashlights and extra batteries
- Portable phone charger (preferably battery-powered or solar)
- Non-perishable food and bottled water
- Battery-powered radio for weather updates
- First aid supplies
- Medications
- Hand warmers and gloves
- A manual can opener
💡 Pro tip: Keep your kit stored in an easy-to-access, central location.
🔋 3. Consider a Backup Power Source
Having a secondary power source can keep your HVAC system—or at least key appliances—running during an outage.
⚡️ Options include:
- Portable generators: Can power essentials like space heaters, fridges, or lights
- Standby generators: Installed outside your home and can power your entire HVAC system automatically
- Battery backup systems: Ideal for short outages or smaller electronics
- ⚠️ Safety note: Never run a generator indoors or in a closed garage. Always use it outside, at least 20 feet from windows or doors.
🏠 4. Insulate and Seal Your Home Ahead of Time
The better your home retains heat, the longer you’ll stay warm during an outage.
🧱 What to do:
- Seal drafts around windows and doors with caulk or weatherstripping
- Insulate attic and basement spaces
- Close off unused rooms to retain warmth in main living areas
- Install thermal curtains or insulated shades
💡 Even rolled-up towels at the base of doors can block cold air during an outage.
🔥 5. Use Alternative Heat Sources (Safely)
If you lose your central heating, you may need to rely on backup heat—but safety comes first.
🔥 Options:
- Wood-burning fireplace: Keep firewood dry and ready
- Kerosene or propane heaters: Only use models approved for indoor use and provide proper ventilation
- Candle heaters or DIY solutions: Can offer minor warmth, but must be used cautiously
🚫 Avoid: Using your gas stove or oven as a heat source—it poses serious carbon monoxide and fire risks.
🚿 6. Protect Pipes from Freezing
Frozen pipes can burst and cause major damage. Without heat, take steps to protect your plumbing.
🧊 What to do:
- Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warmer air in
- Let faucets drip slightly to keep water moving
- Wrap exposed pipes in insulation or towels
- Know where your main water shutoff valve is in case of emergency
❄️ 7. Stay Informed and Connected
Staying in touch is crucial during a winter outage.
📲 Tips:
- Keep phones fully charged when storms are forecasted
- Use text messaging instead of phone calls to conserve battery
- Follow local utility companies on social media for outage updates
- Have backup light sources like LED lanterns or battery-powered string lights
🛠 8. Schedule a Furnace Checkup in Advance
A furnace that’s already struggling is more likely to fail under pressure—even outside of an outage. Proper maintenance can ensure your system is ready to rebound once the power returns.
At Four Seasons Air Specialists, we can:
✅ Inspect and tune up your heating system
✅ Recommend whole-home backup generator options
✅ Install programmable thermostats that retain settings during outages
✅ Help winterize your HVAC equipment for added protection
🏡 Stay Safe and Warm—No Matter the Weather
Power outages in the middle of winter can be stressful, but with a little planning, you can stay warm and protect your home until the lights come back on. If you need help preparing your HVAC system or want to explore heating options with built-in emergency protection, we’re here for you.
