Keeping your home warm and comfortable during the cold months of winter can be quite a challenge. It’s important to make sure you do everything possible to keep your furnace running safely and reliably throughout the season. To help ensure this happens, below are 5 furnace safety tips that every homeowner should know about. From checking smoke detectors to inspecting ductwork, our comprehensive guide will provide all the information you need to keep your family safe while enjoying recovered warmth in your home all winter long!
Check your filters regularly to ensure they are clean and free from debris
Making sure you check your filters regularly is a key part of staying healthy and safe. Whether you’re talking about air conditioners, furnaces, or kitchen fans, it’s important to make sure the filters are not clogged with dust and debris that could interfere with the flow of air in your home. Not only will this help keep the air you breathe clean and free from allergens, but it can also help protect your appliance and improve its efficiency. Cleaning or replacing worn out filters is an easy way to increase comfort and safety in your home.
Have an annual furnace inspection by a professional HVAC technician
Furnace inspection is a vital part of home maintenance that should be scheduled annually. Professional inspection can identify potential issues before they become costly repairs, making the investment worthwhile. An HVAC technician will inspect all parts of the system, check for proper ventilation, test safety settings, and verify optimal functionality. With an annual inspection, you’ll ensure that your furnace is running safely and at maximum efficiency throughout the entire year!
Clean the area around your furnace
To ensure fire safety in your home, it is important to clean the area around your furnace annually. Dust and debris can easily accumulate near ducts, vents, and other hot surfaces making them more likely to ignite if there is a spark or flame. Vacuuming and dusting these areas not only eliminates potential combustion sources but also creates improved airflow which can reduce strain on your furnace. Taking the time to make sure the area is clean will pay off in peace of mind and improved home efficiency
Keep combustible materials away from your furnace
It is essential to keep any combustible materials away from your furnace. These items, such as paint, gasoline and cleaning supplies, can present a serious fire hazard if they happen to come into contact with an ignition source near the furnace. In addition, it’s important to be mindful of these items when repairing, maintaining or replacing your furnace—it’s all too easy for one of them to slip through the cracks. Make sure your family members are also aware so that everyone can stay safe!
Do not attempt repairs or maintenance yourself – contact a qualified furnace technician
DIY maintenance and repairs might seem like a good way to save money, but the potential risks associated with them should make you think twice before reaching for the toolbox. Not only can attempting do-it-yourself repairs lead to broken or damaged parts, but it could also pose serious safety risks if the repair is incorrectly completed. It’s important to remember that even small mistakes or lack of experience when tackling a project can have costly consequences. If you are unsure about how to perform home repairs and maintenance without putting yourself or your property in danger, contact a qualified furnace or heating technician for help instead. A reputable professional will only use the right tools and safe procedures so that any repair done on your property is up to industry standards. Save yourself time and money by getting the job done right – and safely – the first time around.
Taking the necessary steps to keep your furnace in good condition is essential for a comfortable winter season. Regularly check, clean and maintain your furnace, keep an eye on combustible materials nearby and call a professional when repairs are needed. After all, since keeping warm is such a necessity of modern life, taking the time to have your furnace checked and maintained should be one of your top priorities!
