Nothing derails a holiday gathering faster than a home that’s too cold—or uncomfortably warm because your thermostat can’t keep up with the extra heat from cooking and a house full of guests. If you’re hosting in Aurora this season, now is the perfect time to prep your heating system. Here’s how to keep your home cozy, comfortable, and stress-free.
1. Adjust Your Thermostat Before Guests Arrive
When your home fills with people, body heat alone can raise the temperature several degrees. Add cookie baking, holiday meals, and oven use, and your home can warm up fast.
Thermostat strategy for hosting:
- Lower your thermostat by 2–3 degrees about an hour before guests arrive.
- This gives your HVAC system time to stabilize and prevents the “too hot/too stuffy” issue once your home fills up.
- If you have a programmable or smart thermostat, set a temporary schedule for your event window.
Bonus tip: Keep doors closed to unused rooms to help your system balance temperature more efficiently.
2. Make Sure Airflow Isn’t Blocked
Holiday hosting often means rearranging furniture, adding temporary guest beds, stacking gifts, or bringing in extra décor. All of these can accidentally disrupt airflow.
Quick airflow checklist:
- Ensure return and supply vents are not blocked by beds, wrapping stations, or large decorations.
- Keep furniture at least 3–6 inches away from wall vents.
- Clear the area around your furnace and utility room so the equipment has proper breathing room.
Blocked vents make your system work harder, heat less evenly, and run up your energy bill—none of which you want during the busiest time of the year.
3. The Holiday Nightmare Scenario: Furnace Trouble on Christmas Eve
It’s every homeowner’s fear: the furnace quits when the temperature drops and the house is full of family. While preventative tune-ups help reduce risk, emergencies can still happen—often at the worst possible time.
That’s why Artlip and Sons offers 24/7 emergency heating service, even on holidays. If the heat goes out, you won’t be left scrambling or searching for a last-minute technician who’s actually available.
4. A Pre-Holiday Furnace Check Is Always Worth It
If you haven’t had your heater inspected this year, the weeks before major gatherings are the perfect time. A quick tune-up can:
- Catch failing components before they break
- Improve energy efficiency
- Ensure safe operation
- Keep temperatures consistent throughout your home
Your future self—surrounded by warm, happy guests—will thank you.
People Also Ask (PAA)
How do I prepare my heating system for holiday guests?
Lower your thermostat by a few degrees, check all vents for blockages, and consider a pre-holiday furnace tune-up to avoid unexpected issues.
Why does my house get hotter when guests arrive?
Extra body heat, cooking appliances, and increased movement all add warmth, which can raise indoor temperatures by several degrees.
Should I lower my thermostat before hosting?
Yes. Dropping it 2–3 degrees prevents overheating once guests arrive and helps your HVAC system maintain a comfortable balance.
What should I do if my furnace stops working during the holidays?
Call a 24/7 emergency HVAC service—like Artlip and Sons—so a technician can diagnose and repair the issue quickly, even on major holidays.
Can blocked vents affect my home’s temperature?
Absolutely. Blocked return or supply vents restrict airflow and force your system to work harder, causing uneven heating and reduced comfort.
Make this holiday season as stress-free as possible. If you need a furnace tune-up, thermostat guidance, or emergency support, Artlip and Sons is here for you—day or night.