Heating Season Safety Tips
The North wind is blowing and the heating season is now upon us. “As families prepare for the holidays, they should also take the time to be sure all of their heating systems and fireplaces are operating correctly’” says Bill Hussel, of Chimney Doctors. “It’s best to have a qualified service technician check things out.” “Following regular maintenance and safety procedures in your home will give you fuel savings and protect your family from any unwanted and dangerous surprises,” Hussel adds.
Ideas To Consider
? “Stuffy, stale or smelly air, back drafts and soot from a fireplace or furnace chimney usually mean your home needs more air for proper combustion and healthy living,” says Hussel.“For gas-fired equipment, mostly yellow (rather than clear blue) burner flames, a pilot light that keeps going out, or a smell of gas indicate trouble. If you smell gas, turn off the equipment and contact your gas company emergency service.
? If you’re adding a wood or coal burning stove to a home, make sure that the stove is properly installed and vented. Some “do-it-yourselfers” have unknowingly created dangerous conditions. Once you file for a permit, a qualified inspector will check your installation and explain how to rectify any mistakes.
? If you have a forced warm-air furnace, make sure that there is no cold air return register in a small enclosed furnace room.
? On masonry chimneys, inspect the clean-out regularly to ensure that the chimney is free and clear of debris. Regardless of the fuel your furnace, fireplace or stove uses, your chimney should be inspected from time to time by a competent chimney contractor.
? Never try to add a “heat reclaimer” or “automatic flue damper” to your gas furnace or water heater. Gas installation safety codes prohibit use of these devices as an add-on to an existing furnace because of the risks of incorrect installation and mechanical failure.
