Part of owning a furnace is staying on top of basic care and maintenance needs. While it’s highly unlikely that your furnace will blow up, failing to take care of it creates an unsafe home. Proper maintenance, precautions and paying attention to warning signs can keep your family safe and warm.
Schedule Professional Routine Maintenance
Schedule maintenance in the fall to ensure your furnace is safe and ready for winter. You can schedule another inspection if you notice more problems later. Maintenance helps technicians detect gas leaks, heat exchanger damage, pilot light problems and other hazards.
Install Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Carbon monoxide is an odorless, invisible gas that can be deadly if it’s not caught in time. This is why you need to install carbon monoxide detectors around your home. Place the detectors near the furnace and bedrooms, and replace their batteries regularly.
Keep the Area Clean
Clutter and debris buildup around the furnace is a fire hazard. Clean up paper, fabric, leaves, twigs, dirt and other debris as soon as you notice them. You also need to check the area often for clutter and trash. Keep at least 3 feet of clearance around your furnace.
Remove All Flammable Materials
It’s common sense never to store flammable materials near a furnace, but you wouldn’t believe how often people do this. Storing these items close to your furnace poses a serious fire risk. Flammable items include cleaners, paint thinners, gasoline and propane tanks. If you’re unsure about a product, check the package to see if it’s flammable.
Change the Air Filter Monthly
When winter hits, check and change the air filter at least once a month. It’s easy to forget about the filter, but a dirty one can cause overheating. Changing the filter every month protects your home from fire hazards and gas leaks.
Keep Air Vents Clear and Open
Blocking your vents can also cause overheating and safety risks. Move your curtains, furniture and other items away from the vents. You also need to double-check that all vents are open. This includes the vents in unoccupied rooms.
Take Pilot Light Issues Seriously
Pay attention to the pilot light flame when your gas furnace kicks on. It should be blue. If it’s yellow, orange, flickering or going out constantly, call a technician right away. There may be a ventilation problem, a combustion issue or a gas leak.
Pay Attention to Other Issues
Issues like poor airflow, strange sounds and burning smells are usually warning signs of a serious problem. They can cause fires and gas leaks if left untreated.
Your furnace is an important part of your home, but neglecting it can lead to a scary situation. To keep your family safe this winter, take all the safety precautions we’ve mentioned, and watch for warning signs. You might want to schedule annual maintenance and install carbon monoxide detectors, too. When you need furnace services in Levittown, PA, contact McHales.