COLUMBUS, Ohio — Ace Hardware on Parsons Avenue saw steady traffic Wednesday morning as customers stocked up on winter supplies. Staff said ice melt is moving quickly, and shelves are being restocked frequently.

HVAC specialists emphasized that maintenance checks are key to keeping homes warm during the cold months .

“There's a lot of components that can break down, wear and tear parts,” said Justin Smith, a team leader with Atlas Butler. “If you don't have your system serviced, just like getting your oil changed, then these are the times when it's running very, very hard for hours on end.”

Smith has been inspecting heating systems across Columbus. He advises homeowners to replace furnace filters regularly and keep indoor temperatures consistent — no more than a 2‑degree difference be

See Full Page