Winter is here, and as temperatures drop, keeping your home warm and cozy is a top priority. But did you know that heating equipment is a leading cause of home fires in the U.S.?
According to the National Fire Protection Association, heating equipment is responsible for nearly 39,000 home fires each year. Space heaters and chimneys account for most incidents, while central heating systems, including furnaces, make up about one in ten.
To help you enjoy a safe and comfortable winter, here are some essential home heating safety tips from the team at Legacy Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical…
Maintain Your Heating System
Before the cold sets in, schedule a professional tune-up for your furnace or central heating system. Regular maintenance keeps your system:
- 1. Running efficiently
- 2. Maintains any warranties
- 3. Ensures safety
A clean, maintained HVAC system can be up to 20% more efficient and is less likely to cause fires or carbon monoxide leaks.
Install Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Annually in the US, Carbon monoxide (CO) accounts for 100,000 emergency rooms visits and 14,000 hospitalizations. Carbon monoxide is colorless, odorless, and deadly.
Make sure you have detectors near bedrooms and on every level of your home. Test them monthly and replace batteries every six months. If you don’t already have a CO detector, ask your Legacy technician about installing one today.
Check Your Smoke Alarms
Smoke detectors save lives, so make sure yours are in working order. Test them monthly, change batteries at least once a year, and replace the detectors every 10 years. Keep them clean and free from dust to ensure they function properly.
Use Space Heaters Safely
Space heaters can be convenient, but they’re also a common cause of home fires. FEMA.gov shares that space heaters account for 1,700 fires each year. When using space heaters, follow these safety steps:
- 1. Keep space heaters three feet away from flammable materials
- 2. Plug them directly into wall outlets (not extension cords)
- 3. Always turn them off when leaving the room or going to sleep.
Practice Fireplace Safety
It’s time to flip on the fireplace, but don’t do so until you’ve ready these safety warnings: have chimneys and flues professionally cleaned annually, use a sturdy screen to contain sparks, burn only dry, seasoned wood, and let ashes cool completely before disposal. Always keep children and pets at a safe distance from the fire.
Enjoy a Safe Winter
A safe and warm winter season starts with a little preparation. If you need help maintaining your heating system, installing detectors, or preparing your home for the cold months ahead, call the trusted team at Legacy Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical at 574-203-5668.
Stay safe, stay warm, and enjoy the season!
