When the temperatures drop in New York City, heating season officially begins from October 1 through May 31. Whether you live in a prewar building with steam radiators or a modern apartment with central heating, preparation is key to staying safe, warm, and compliant with NYC heat regulations.
NYC Heating Regulations: What Every Tenant Should Know
Under the NYC Housing Maintenance Code, landlords must maintain indoor temperatures of at least 68°F during the day (if outdoor temps fall below 55°F) and 62°F at night, regardless of outdoor temperature. If your heat isn’t working, report it immediately via 311 or the NYC Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) website.
Tenants in NYCHA housing should also review NYCHA’s heating season guidelines, which include closing windows tightly, managing radiator valves correctly, and reporting outages promptly.
Radiator Maintenance: Avoid Cold Spots and Leaks
Old-school radiators are part of NYC’s charm but they require attention. According to Cooperator News, many residents mistakenly adjust valves mid-cycle, leading to uneven heat. Instead:
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Make sure radiators are fully on or fully off—never halfway.
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Bleed air valves if your unit has them to improve circulation.
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Keep radiators unobstructed, move furniture or curtains that block heat flow.
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If you notice leaks or hissing sounds, contact your building’s superintendent.
Window Insulation: The Key to Retaining Heat in NYC Apartments
Even the best heating system struggles against drafty windows. Simple insulation upgrades can make a major difference:
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Apply weather stripping or window film kits for affordable sealing.
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Use thermal curtains to block cold air and reduce energy bills.
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Close blinds or drapes at night and open them during the day to capture sunlight.
For renters, temporary solutions like removable caulk or plastic insulation film are effective and lease-friendly.
Want more ways to save on your NYC energy bill this winter? Visit our blog for seasonal maintenance checklists and home efficiency tips.
Heating System Readiness: Pre-Winter Checklist
Before the first cold front hits, it’s wise to make sure your heating system is ready to perform:
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Schedule annual maintenance for boilers or HVAC systems.
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Replace filters and inspect thermostats for proper function.
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Check for pipe insulation, especially near windows or exterior walls.
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Keep vents and baseboards clean for optimal airflow.
As RunWise suggests, a few preventive steps can reduce your heating bill while keeping your system running efficiently.
Emergency Heat Loss & Safety Tips
If you lose heat during NYC’s heating season, never use your oven or stove as a heat source — it can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. Instead:
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Call 311 or HPD for emergency assistance.
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Use space heaters safely, keep them at least 3 feet from anything flammable.
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Install and regularly test carbon monoxide detectors.
The NYC Department of Health and Emergency Management recommends having extra blankets, flashlights, and battery-powered radios on hand during winter storms or outages.
Stay Warm, Stay Safe: NYC Winter Preparedness
From radiator upkeep to insulation upgrades, small actions now can prevent major cold-weather headaches later. Make this winter your coziest yet—check your heating system early, know your tenant rights, and stay alert to NYC’s seasonal updates.
Want expert NYC apartment living tips all year long? Keep reading our blog for local guides on heating, cooling, maintenance, and energy savings.
JUST DEWITT. DOME Property Management has been providing professional property management services to NYC and beyond since 1987. For more information about DOME Property Management and their AI Chatbot Ask The Dewitts, visit DOMEgroup.com or drop us an email at properties@DOMEproperty.com