Plumbing and heating specialists are advising the public of preventative maintenance amid high demand with the recent cold snap. (Elliott Knopp/meadowlakeNOW Staff)

By Elliott Knopp

Cold Snap

Plumbing and heating specialists experiencing high demand amid cold snap

Jan 6, 2022 | 3:48 PM

As residents in Meadow Lake work diligently to protect themselves from the harsh elements, plumbing and heating specialists are being called on more frequently due to the latest cold snap.

The surge in service calls to help restore heat to homes isn’t much of a surprise to those in the industry, but as temperatures reach extreme levels, professionals are advising the community of some things they can do to further protect themselves.

In an interview with meadowlakeNOW, We Do It Plumbing and Heating’s office manager Kevin Sten said one of the most common instances he’s encountered throughout this trend comes in the form of units that haven’t received maintenance ahead of the season.

“Make sure you’re doing regular maintenance to your furnace, and try not to delay doing repairs to your furnace,” he said.

Sten explained the current supply chain delays and higher call volumes could result in a repair taking a longer time than usual, meaning preventative measures could save residents time and money while avoiding a significant inconvenience.

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“Some people delay doing minor repairs, and then end up with a larger problem down the line at a poor time,” Sten said.

“Things like doing a regular furnace filter replacement is something that’s so simple, but it seems to be forgotten or overlooked.”

Other common preventive measures include regularly replacing thermostat batteries, maintaining adequate levels in propane tanks and checking ventilation for any built up condensation that may have frozen over time.

However, as project coordinator Mauri Young at Ron’s Plumbing and Heating points out, not all calls for service are brought on by mild factors.

“Some of the things you can’t prevent. If a motor goes, a motor goes,” she said.

Young said the best way to stay ahead of these unexpected issues is to have a professional service a furnace or other unit ahead of the season to make sure everything is in good working order.

While clients are waiting for a technician to arrive to a service call, Young advised people to have a supplementary heat source in the home to prevent further damages as temperatures drop.

“Make sure that filters are changed, vents are free and stay warm.”

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elliott.knopp@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @ElliottKnopp