The Essential Device to Have for Extreme Cold Weather

Although winter hasn't officially started, extreme cold warnings are already being issued across the United States. With temperatures predicted to plunge below 32 degrees Fahrenheit for extended periods, a frigid Arctic front is set to bring the coldest air of the season next week.

While items like portable heaters and electric blankets are vital, there's one specific device that an HVAC expert insists every homeowner should have on hand as a precaution.

Here, we share the must-have item to prepare your home for freezing temperatures.

The Essential Device to Have for Extreme Cold Weather

All prices were accurate at the time this article was written.

This digital temperature controller is equipped with high and low temperature alarms and displays both the measured and set temperatures simultaneously.

As cold weather settles in, it's essential to know the best practices for protecting your home against damage from severe weather conditions. To gain insight, we consulted Josh Mitchell, an HVAC expert and founder of AirConditionerLab, for his top recommendation on keeping your house warm without increasing the thermostat.

'A plug-in thermostat controller is the one item I always advise homeowners to have during extreme cold spells,' he shares, recommending the Inkbird ITC-308 Digital Temperature Controller, available on Amazon.

'This device plugs into any standard outlet and allows you to manage a space heater or heat lamp based on the surrounding air temperature. Simply set your desired temperature, plug your heater into the controller, and it will automatically turn the heater on and off to keep the area within your specified temperature range.'

This device makes it easy to maintain a comfortable room temperature, even when the weather is particularly chilly.

'Many people overlook this tool, but it can prevent areas like basements and garages from dropping below freezing without the constant need to run the heater,' he adds. 'I've utilized it in situations where simply maintaining a temperature of 40°F in a mechanical room was enough to protect sensitive HVAC components like condensate pumps and mini-split lines.'

'For optimal results, position the temperature probe about halfway between the floor and the ceiling. Avoid placing it right in front of the heater, as that can lead to inaccurate readings. Set the temperature a few degrees above freezing if you're protecting a utility room or mechanical closet.'

'If you have a ductless mini-split system,' which provides heating and cooling without traditional ductwork, 'this controller is beneficial for managing backup heat in rooms where the unit may struggle during extreme cold,' Josh continues.

'Some systems may lose efficiency or spend more time in defrost mode when outdoor temperatures drop below approximately 17°F, depending on the model. By connecting a small space heater to the controller, you can keep the room at a safe temperature without having to continuously run additional heat.'

'For renters, this solution is easy to implement without needing to modify the existing system. Just unplug it and take it with you when you move.'

For even better results, arranging a room to maximize heat can also help reduce energy bills.

Additionally, Eli Zimmer, director of operations at Luxaire HVAC Services, recommends using electric blankets, such as the Homemate Electric Heated Blanket available on Amazon.

'The advantage of electric blankets is that they use very little energy,' he explains. 'They can be a cost-effective way to warm your bed or couch without cranking up the overall heat in your home.'

'I like to turn on my electric blanket before getting into bed. This way, it has time to warm everything up. Once I'm settled in, I unplug it, as it's important not to leave it plugged in overnight for safety reasons.'

And if you're curious about the cost of running an electric blanket, they consume minimal energy, so you won't have to worry about skyrocketing energy bills. Zone heating is an excellent method to stay warm without raising your costs significantly.

Furthermore, Tamer Sayed, owner-operator of Tamas Mechanical Inc, also suggests using a ceramic space heater, like the Dreo Space Heater available on Amazon, which he describes as 'reliable and budget-friendly,' complete with safety features like tip-over and heat protection.

'It allows you to keep one priority room warm if your furnace is struggling, without needing to heat the entire house,' he advises. 'Simply select one room, close the door to retain heat, place it on a sturdy, level surface with a three-foot clearance from bedding and curtains, and plug it directly into a wall outlet without using power strips or extension cords.'

'Set the built-in thermostat to around 20°C [68°F], and turn it off when you leave or go to sleep. For an inexpensive add-on, thermal blackout curtains can help minimize heat loss through windows at night.'

Recommended Products

The Inkbird ITC-308 Digital Temperature Controller is the top product that HVAC expert Josh recommends for extreme cold weather. It's user-friendly and currently a bestseller.

The Bedsure Heated Blanket Throw is available in 30 colors, with four timer settings and six heating levels.

The GiveBest Portable Electric Space Heater is compact and perfect for moving from room to room, providing quiet and efficient heating. There are also many stylish small heater options available.

The YGXNEWER Electric Heated Throw Blanket is generously sized, safety certified, and features an auto-off function along with adjustable heating levels.

The Google Nest Thermostat is one of the simplest ways to maintain your home temperature during extreme cold weather.

The Honeywell 360 Surround Space Heater is perfect for added comfort in small to medium-sized rooms, offering an adjustable thermostat and all-around heat output.

Meet the Expert

Josh founded Air Conditioner Lab in 2014 to document his extensive research and experiences with home air conditioning systems and cooling methods over the last decade.

As colder weather approaches, it's equally important to safeguard plants from frost and prepare your home for extreme weather.