frozen blower motor

This is our 2nd vehicle in our household to have the same problem. I started the car ( it was plugged in) at -18 degrees. Everything worked except the heater motor. After 10 minutes and after phoning Ens Toyota my husband and I drove there with the windows open, my ear muffs on and my hood up. It took 10 minutes to get there and we just about froze. I was going to go to work early but ended a1/2 hr. Late. They were so busy and we had to wait 10-15 mins. before anyone talked to us. Then one of the service men served us and took care of the problem. Do I have to go there every time I have this problem? He said no I could do it myself even if it's -30 . I do not appreciate getting so cold. These vehicles are supposed to be built for our weather and obviously they are not. What will you do ?