Now that the cold weather is here, people are turning up their furnaces, boilers, and other heating equipment. Whether your furnace is 6 months old or 6 years old, you need to properly maintain this equipment to keep your home warm and your family safe.
Without routine maintenance or professional cleaning, you increase the risk of a breakdown or hazardous issues occurring with your furnace.
In the interest of heating safety and fire prevention, some simple steps can be taken to help prevent noxious or fire-related disasters in the home.
Furnace Maintenance
One of the most common causes of house fires and carbon monoxide poisoning is poorly maintained furnaces. Regular maintenance provided by a NATE-certified technician can greatly help reduce the risk of home heating fires or toxic gas leaks from your HVAC system.
During an appointment, a technician will thoroughly inspect your system for worn or faulty parts that could lead to a leak, breakdown, or fire. They will also clean out your system and replace the air filter, so your furnace can operate more efficiently.
If your heating system has not been inspected this year, it is highly recommended to schedule a service call with your local heating and air conditioning company.
Heating and Fire Safety: Maintenance and Cleaning Tips
Provided your heating system has already been maintained this year, before turning it on there are a few safety precautions to take.
- Wipe down heater surfaces to eliminate dust and debris
- Look for rust or corrosion and check for leaks
- Check for exposed, frayed, or damaged wires
- Check air filters and replace them, if necessary
- Make sure the heater has a clear 3-foot buffer with nothing flammable nearby
If any leaks or damaged wires are found, contact your local HVAC company for a service call. The system may not be safe to engage before having a professional take a look.
Safety Tips For Testing Your Heating System
Once a furnace or boiler has been cleaned and checked, you need to turn it on to test for strange odors and sounds. The smell of rotten eggs or a persistent knocking sound can be indicative of problems that should be addressed by a professional HVAC technician.
If you smell gas, immediately turn off the heater, leave the house, and call the gas company.
Nearly 20% of house fires are caused by problematic heating systems. It is crucial to have heaters professionally maintained, spot-checked, and cleaned before turning them on. What may seem like a waste of time at the moment could potentially save your home and your family.
The Most Reliable Heating Service In Garner, NC
Heat your home safely this winter with the help of AnyDay Heating & Cooling. Our maintenance, installation, and repair services all include a thorough inspection of your system to ensure it is safe and will run efficiently.
To schedule your next maintenance service in Garner, please call us.
