When a cold spell hits Philadelphia, it doesn’t mess around. Arctic winds sweep down Broad Street, frozen sleet coats SEPTA stops, and rowhome windows frost up before you’ve had your morning coffee. Staying warm isn’t just about comfort—it’s about safety, efficiency, and being prepared. Here’s how to keep your Philly home toasty when the temperature takes a nosedive.

1. Start With a Solid Seal

Before cranking up the thermostat, make sure your home isn't leaking heat. Drafts are common in older Philadelphia homes, especially around windows and doors. A simple DIY fix: use weather stripping or draft stoppers to block cold air. Window film kits can also help insulate glass during especially frigid weeks. Check around baseboards, attic hatches, and outlets—cold loves to sneak in the least expected places.

2. Use Your Thermostat Wisely

A programmable thermostat can be your best friend during a cold snap. Set it to lower the temperature slightly while you're sleeping or out, then warm up before you return. Don’t overwork your system by cranking it up too high—aim for a steady 68–70°F when you’re home. This helps maintain comfort while keeping your energy bill from skyrocketing.

3. Keep Vents and Radiators Clear

If you’re using forced air or radiators (both common in Philly homes), make sure nothing’s blocking them. Furniture, rugs, or curtains in front of heat sources will prevent warm air from circulating. Clean vents and check radiators for dust or obstructions. Sometimes, warmth is just being redirected—and that’s a fix you can manage yourself.

4. Use Curtains to Your Advantage

On sunny days, open south-facing curtains to let in the natural heat. At night, close them to keep warmth in. Insulated or thermal curtains can make a surprising difference when temps dip into the 20s or below.

5. Humidify the Air

Cold air is dry, and dry air feels colder than it is. Adding a humidifier—especially in bedrooms—can help you feel warmer and breathe easier. You can even go old-school with a pot of water on the stove (just watch it closely). Bonus: humidity helps protect wood floors and furniture from drying out and cracking.

6. Know When to Call in the Pros

If your heating system is blowing cold air, making strange noises, or not keeping up, it’s time to get help. DIY fixes have their limits, especially with furnaces or boilers. McCorry Comfort offers professional heating service tailored to Philadelphia homes and can get your system running efficiently again. When you're unsure, it’s always better to play it safe—especially in below-freezing weather.

7. Prepare for Power Outages

Cold snaps sometimes come with ice storms and high winds, which can knock out power. Keep extra blankets, flashlights, and batteries handy. If you use space heaters, only use them when you're in the room and never plug them into extension cords. Safety should always come first.

Final Thoughts

Philadelphia winters have their charm—twinkling lights on rowhomes, sledding in Fairmount Park—but when that cold settles in, your home needs to be ready. With a little preparation and the right fixes, you can keep your living space warm, safe, and energy-smart all season long.

Stay cozy, Philly.