Blizzard and Winter Weather Preparedness Tips - Courtesy of Lou Manfredini, Ace's Home Expert

During and After the Storm:
- Frequent shoveling: Depending on the amount of snow that falls, it is a good idea to occasionally clear a path from the front and back door or your home. In case of an emergency, you need a clear exit at all times. If a heavy amount of snow falls and your boiler or furnace has vents on the side of your home, make sure that you remove enough snow so that pipe stays clear. If it becomes covered with snow your unit will shut down

- Severe cold switch: During bouts of extreme cold temperatures, switch your heater from auto to fan on. This adjustment will constantly circulate warm air throughout the home causing the burners to run less, which will maintain a consistent warm temperature in your home and use less natural gas and/or electricity.
- Prevent freezing: In areas of the home where pipes are prone to freezing, such as a bathroom on an outside wall or basement, turn the faucet on slightly to allow a trickle of water. Moving water will keep the pipes from freezing.
- Frozen pipes: If pipes freeze, remove any insulation and wrap towels around the pipes to absorb moisture during the thawing process. Do not use a blowtorch to thaw frozen pipes, slow thawing works best to prevent them from bursting.