4 Crucial Furnace Safety Tips that You Need to Know
A home fire is one of the worst ordeals that a family can endure and it can sadly have fatal consequences. Taking some steps to prevent and to prepare for this kind of situation can drastically reduce the risks. The National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA) hold the Fire Prevention Week each year to remind Americans of this fact. One of the leading causes of home fires are heating systems, so here are four furnace safety tips that you need to follow.
1. Maintenance is Never Wasted
Regular maintenance of the furnace in your home is a key step in preventing home fires. If there are any cracks or leaks in your furnace, gas can escape into your home, and this is a fire hazard. An annual service should include an inspection of the burner assembly, an examination of the burner assembly and a check of all the other critical parts. A well maintained furnace will be safer, but there are two other advantages that make the cost well worthwhile. The furnace will run more efficiently, and it will be less likely to break down in winter when you need it most.
2. Don’t Repair Your Own Furnace
It may well be the case that you have some DIY experience, but a furnace should only be serviced and fixed by a professional. If you don’t fully understand exactly what you’re doing it can be easy to make a critical mistake. This can lead to flammable gas leaks or elevated levels of carbon monoxide in your home. Aside from these safety issues, a botched repair can make the furnace less efficient and raise your energy bills. Always use a certified professional heating engineer as it will be both safer and cheaper for your family.
3. Clear Out Any Clutter
Many people, don’t consider the ramifications of placing objects on or too close to their furnace. Quite often, the furnace and the area around it are used for storing all kinds of items that are not in everyday use. The problem is that the furnace can get very hot when operating and any nearby combustible materials can catch fire. In fact, according to the NFPA, this alone is the leading cause of fatal home fires. In 2010 alone, it accounted for 53% of home fire deaths. Take a close look at your furnace and make sure that any flammable materials are removed from the area. Ideally, you should have a three foot area free from any materials around the furnace. If you find that you have discolored walls that maybe feel warm around your heater, call an engineer as this needs professional attention.
4. Ventilation is Essential
All dangerous fumes from our furnaces are vented out of our home via a flue. This is usually located on the roof of your home, and it is vital that it is kept clear. Blockages can occur for a number of reasons, such as nesting animals, leaves, and other debris. This can cause the fumes to seep back into your home causing a fire risk and other health complications. Try to develop a habit to check your vents on a regular basis throughout the year and if you’re unsure about the process call a professional heating engineer.