City Urges Residents to Prep Heaters for Winter
Abilene officials and heating professionals are advising residents to check their heaters and thermostats as cooler temperatures settle in.
Updated on Nov. 10, 2026 in Safety
Live Poll
Have you already started preparing your home for winter heating and possible power outages?
Cooler temperatures are settling across the Big Country, and families are starting to turn on their heaters for the first time this season. Abilene's deputy emergency management coordinator, Angela Baker, and local heating professionals are urging residents to prepare before the first cold snap.
Why it matters
Winter storms can cause power outages, which are especially hard on homes that rely on electric heat. Preparing heating systems in advance can reduce the risk of being left without warmth during severe weather.
Local heating professionals suggest starting at 68 or 70 degrees when home and adjusting gradually until comfortable. The city has not yet released its full winter preparation information, and the timing of that release remains unannounced.
The players
Angela Baker
Angela Baker serves as the deputy emergency management coordinator for the City of Abilene, overseeing local preparedness for severe weather and emergencies.
Chris Flores
Chris Flores is the owner of Pro Flow Heating & Air, a heating and cooling business serving the Abilene area.
The details
Chris Flores, owner of Pro Flow Heating & Air, cautioned that dirty filters can choke off airflow and that an incorrect thermostat setup can keep a heater from turning on during the first cold snap. He also noted that higher temperature settings can mean higher bills, while lowering thermostat settings can save money.
Timeline
Now (November 2026): Families begin turning on heaters for the first time this season.
Near future: The city plans to release winter preparation information.
Seasonal Patterns
Pre-winter heating checks are a recurring seasonal pattern that the U.S. Fire Administration has long encouraged before the first cold snap. Abilene's advisory fits that yearly cycle as families switch heaters on for the first time this season.
Residents should check that filters are clean and that the thermostat is set correctly before running the heater through the first cold snap. Those who rely on electric heat should plan ahead for possible power outages during winter storms.
The takeaway
Preparing a heating system before the first cold front arrives is a simple step that can prevent a no-heat emergency. Starting with moderate thermostat settings and adjusting gradually keeps both comfort and energy costs in check.
What happens next
The City of Abilene plans to release its winter preparation information in the near future.
Further reading
Find more local guidance in the Safety section for Abilene.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KTXS.
Live Poll
Have you already started preparing your home for winter heating and possible power outages?
