Today’s high-efficiency furnaces do an incredible job at keeping our homes nice and warm and safe and for far less than the models we grew up with —at least when they are used properly. Nonetheless, as with any sort of fuel-burning appliance, furnaces can develop complications that can become threats to the safety of those living in the dwelling.

Get your annual furnace tune-up

One of the most fundamental parts of a professional furnace tune-up is how our certified technicians analyze your home heating system to make sure it is operating safely and efficiently. During a seasonal tune-up visit, our technicians check for any issues like a cracked heat exchanger or damaged electrical wiring that could become severe safety hazards in your residence. As such, a tune-up (or preventative maintenance) is crucial. If you would like the peace-of-mind knowing your furnace is going to safely run throughout the winter, give us a call!

Test carbon monoxide detectors

Leaks of the gas known as carbon monoxide are among the most serious safety threats in a dwelling; often carbon monoxide leaks because of furnace malfunctions. That’s why it’s so vital to check to make sure all of your home’s carbon monoxide detectors are functioning for sure in the event of an emergency. Make sure to check all these detectors and test them in your home. Install a new pair of batteries in each unit.

Test smoke detectors/alarms

Some of the worst types of furnace issues can become fire hazards, which can lead to house fires. As such, this is a good time of year to check your home’s smoke alarms. You should do this every year. Much like CO detectors, you should test all of your smoke detectors/alarms and install a fresh pair of batteries in each one.

Maintain a safe space around your furnace

You can decrease the probability of a fire caused by your furnace or home heating system drastically by maintaining a clean and safe space around the HVAC system. In other words: Never store anything near the furnace. This is especially important to realize when it comes to anything that might be flammable!

Replace Furnace Filters Frequently

Obstructed, outdated and dirty air filters inhibit that all-so vital airflow your furnace needs. This puts unnecessary strain on a furnace, causing it to overwork. It also increases the chances of a carbon monoxide leak. Furthermore, a dirty filter permits dirt to build up on a furnace’s parts and systems, which can lead to several efficiency issues as well as performance and safety problems. Because of this, it is imperative you check your furnace filter every month this winter; it will likely need replaced as often.

Discuss HVAC system safety guidelines

This particularly goes for anyone out there who has a family in the home. We suggest sitting everyone down to meet and talk it over, or at the very least post a note on your refrigerator. Establish a set of safety rules for your home heating system or furnace. Utilize this safety list as some of the rules. Never allow children to play anywhere close to the heater or furnace. Make sure everyone in the household understands what to do in case of an emergency. We also suggest making sure everyone knows where the gas shutoff valve is located if you have a gas furnace, in case of a gas leak.

Don’t Hesitate to Call Us

You should not take any sort of chances with any fuel-burning appliances like furnaces or home heating systems. For this reason, it’s always best to stay on the safe side. Never hesitate to call our friendly professional team here at Monroe Heating & Air if you suspect that anything’s going awry with your system.
If you have any questions about these furnace safety tips, or if you’d like a heating system serviced or installed in your home, give us a call at (513) 540-4890 or click here to Schedule An Appointment Now!