Jefe wrote: ↑Wed Dec 27, 2023 4:47 pm
Well Im sure this doesn't help or maybe it does ... I haven't turned my heat on 2 of the last 3 winters in Tucson. My place did get down to 59°for a dew days but it was manageable
The key is you had electricity. That makes a big difference. For a couple of days last winter it got down to almost -20. The heater where I live, shared by others, could only sustain a temperature of 54. But, at least I had electricity, and internet. I can wear a coat, or block off one room and use an electric space heater for a short tome. I can handle 54 degrees, but life is a little different in those environments. Hint, don't open the door after you shower, and are completely dressed. A bathroom is easy to keep warm over a short time. You just need to be ready to open the bathroom door, and be prepared for the sudden champ in temperature.
I was lucky to find a lighter during the storm. And I need much better candles, strategically placed. Maybe I needed a chandelier of candles.
I had 5G on my phone. That was my only connection to the internet at home. All electronics were unusable except for the cell phone and tablet. I could read on the tablet, even though it was wi-fi only. (Memo: Download a few movies or shows on the device, just in case.)
My candles are woefully bad. They were only good for getting around. And later when I thought of the flashlight, mostly worthless. Small candles are good for one purpose. It can help you find things. Maybe find the bigger candles.
A big lesson learned. Make sure you have propane heat for an emergency. It can make a big difference. Life without electricity is mind blowing when electricity is out for an extended time. It is like a hurricane in the aftermath of the storm, mostly because it is so wide spread. (thanks to the 100+ electric crews who cam from out of state and Canada, they get it). The area I live was hit the worst in the entire state (at least a hurricane only follows a small path, and the rest of the area is spared).
After all I've been through so far I don't desire to leave the area. The area is really beautiful. Snow itself is peaceful (most of the time). And seeing the landscape after freshly fallen snow is something to behold.
I like all 4 seasons. I might learn to cross-country ski or snowshoe this season. Things have to line up correctly for this to happen. The area is inspiring, and I live in an art and musical town. When this storm hit, people came out from everywhere and helped each other. That makes me love the town where I live.