While everyone wants to save on home heating costs, doing so safely is a huge concern for many homeowners. Heating equipment is the leading cause of fatal home fires, and half of all incidents occur from December through February. To help you stay safe and warm, there are several points you need to take note of.
Cover The Basics Of Fire Safety
Contents
Install smoke and carbon monoxide alarms on each floor of your home, including outside bedrooms. Remember to change the batteries when you adjust your clocks to spring forward or fall back an hour. It’s also advisable to test these devices at least once a month.
Your home should also have a multi-purpose fire extinguisher. Teach everyone in your house on how to use the equipment properly. Homeowners need to create a fire escape plan. Each room should have at least 2 departure routes, both of which should be easily accessible. Practice the home escape plan on a regular basis and set a good example for the children.
Heaters Need Their Space
Create a 3-foot safety barrier around all your heating equipment. Be sure to keep any item that’s even remotely inflammable out of this barrier. This would include objects like bedding, paper, clothing and other items you may not consider flammable, like furniture and electronics. Never place anything on top of a heat source. Also, kids need to be kept at least 3 feet away from furnaces, fireplaces, portable space heaters, and stoves.
Fuel
Always use the right fuel for your space heaters. You can check your device’s manual for information on fuels specified by the manufacturer. If you’re considering alternative fuels, it’s important to consult with local fire officials to make sure that whatever you’re intending to use is legal and safe.
When you have a fireplace, you need to monitor what is burned. It’s advisable to use seasoned woods and avoid burning coated or glossy papers. These contain toxic chemicals that could be released into the air. The fireplace should also have a strong screen to prevent sparks from flying into the living area.
Solid Fuel Stoves
If your heating equipment uses coal, firewood or pellets, remember to let the ashes cool down for a while before disposing them. Ashes should always be disposed using a metal container with a lid. This should then be kept away from the house, porch and garage. It’s also advisable to have the equipment and chimneys inspected and cleaned annually by a qualified professional.
Other Fire Safety Tips
- All stationary space heaters and water heaters should be installed by a qualified technician. The equipment should also be approved by a national testing agency. This ensures that local codes and manufacturer’s instructions are followed to the letter. Be sure to conduct heating system maintenance annually to prevent unnecessary repairs or premature replacement.
- Always remember to turn off your portable heaters whenever you’re going to bed or leaving the room.
- Never use an oven to heat your home.
Conclusion
When it comes to protecting your household, home heating safety is important. With these tips, you can enjoy a safe, warm and comfortable home during winter. To learn more about home safe heating options, you could contact a specialist for advice.
Heater Maintenance South Brunswick NJ
For any advice on your home heating needs, you will need a reputable home comfort specialist. They will be able to advise you on how to improve your home’s comfort levels so that you can stay safe, warm and comfortable throughout the winter. This is especially recommended if you have not conducted any heating system maintenance or tune-ups.
Princeton Heating & Air Conditioning has been in business since the 196os and offers a wide variety of services, including heater tune-ups, HVAC system installations, and heater repair services. Be sure to take a look at our heating oil delivery services as well. All of our technicians are professionally Nate-certified specialists. Give us a call today to take advantage of our high quality and affordable services. We are among the few providers in NJ to hold a Carrier Presidents Award Dealer distinction. Be sure to call us and speak with one of our comfort specialists today if you have any questions.
We service Cranbury NJ 08512, East Brunswick NJ 08816, Franklin Park NJ 08823, Helmetta NJ 08828, Hightstown NJ 08520, Kendall Park NJ 08824, Kingston NJ 08528, Milltown NJ 08850, Monmouth Junction NJ 08852, Monroe Township NJ 08831, New Brunswick NJ 08901, North Brunswick NJ 08902, Plainsboro NJ 08536, Princeton NJ 08540, Princeton Junction NJ 08550, Rocky Hill NJ 08553, Somerset NJ 08873, South Brunswick NJ 08810, South River NJ 08877, Spotswood NJ 08884, and surrounding areas!
Contact us now at (800) 253-9001 to find out more!