In areas like Fremont and Livermore, CA, homeowners rely on a heating system to stay warm. Unfortunately, not enough homeowners give thought to heating safety. As the colder months approach, furnace safety becomes something you should think about. Furnaces, when not properly maintained, present certain key risks, such as fire hazards and carbon monoxide (CO) exposure.
At AIS Heating & Air Conditioning, we want you to prepare now so you can enjoy your home’s risk-free heating this winter. You can avoid most furnace safety hazards using routine maintenance and professional assistance.
Keep the Area Around the Furnace Clear
Many people store items near or around their furnace because of its prime location in the basement or utility closet. We recommend keeping boxes and other items at least 3 feet from the furnace. Also, never store anything that’s considered flammable, such as cleaning supplies, rags, paint cans, and other combustibles, around the furnace. When these materials get too close, especially to a gas furnace, they can ignite and cause a fire.
Regularly Change Furnace Filters
Clean filters improve air quality by trapping dust and debris and preventing these particulates from entering the furnace. This can also prevent the furnace from overheating or experiencing system strain. You will want to check the filter monthly to determine its cleanliness and if it needs changing. Most furnace filters need to be changed at least every 30 to 90 days. However, if you have pets or smoke and vape in your home, you might need more regular filter changes. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions on the filter to ensure you’re following a proper filter maintenance schedule.
Checking the Pilot Light
Your furnace’s pilot light should always appear like a strong, steady blue flame. If it’s yellow, flickering, or frequently goes out, this can indicate a problem. You never want to ignore abnormal pilot light activity, as it could cause CO leaks or explosions in the home. Have our team address pilot light issues to ensure your safety.
Install and Test Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless gas produced by incomplete combustion. Mechanical issues, such as a broken heat exchanger or pilot light issues, can cause your furnace to emit dangerous levels of CO into your home. When carbon monoxide builds, it can cause sickness and even death if concentrations rise high enough.
You can reduce the risk of CO leaks in your home by having your furnace professionally serviced every year before the heating season begins. You can reduce the risk of CO illness or death by installing CO detectors on every level of the home and in all areas where people sleep. Make sure to test the batteries in your CO detectors monthly and replace the detectors according to their advertised life expectancy.
Schedule Annual Professional Furnace Maintenance
Scheduling annual furnace maintenance with a certified technician can identify potential issues before they become dangerous. During the inspection, you can expect our team to clean and inspect components like the heat exchanger, burner, flue pipe, and electrical connections while checking for leaks and testing controls. The benefits of professional maintenance extend beyond ensuring safe operation. Maintenance also improves efficiency and the furnace’s lifespan while preventing costly repairs.
Recognizing Signs of a Dangerous or Malfunctioning Furnace
Knowing the signs of potentially dangerous furnace issues keeps your household safe. Stay alert for the following signs of a problem:
- Unusual noises
- Strange odors
- Pilot light issues
- Frequent cycling
- Lack of heat or inconsistent heating
- Corrosion or rust accumulation
The Value of Professional Inspections and Cleanings
Uncovering problems quickly allows you to use your furnace with confidence. Our technicians at AIS Heating & Air Conditioning have the training and tools to spot hidden dangers and keep your home safe during the winter and beyond. Proactive maintenance prevents emergency breakdowns, mitigates CO dangers, and gives you peace of mind. When our team maintains or repairs your furnace, you can rest easily knowing we adhere to strict safety standards and ensure your furnace is compliant with current safety requirements. At AIS Heating & Air Conditioning, your home’s furnace safety is always on our minds.
Don’t wait for winter to be in full swing before you address furnace issues at your Fremont or Livermore home. Take care of problems now before temperatures start to drop and HVAC teams get busy. Prioritize your family’s safety and schedule a professional furnace safety check with AIS Heating & Air Conditioning today!
