October is finally here! Did you know that October is National Fire Prevention Month? What all just started as just a week to remember The Great Chicago Fire of 1871 now covers the whole month. And we’re all for it! It’s crazy to think that about 358,500 housefires happen every year in the United States. The thing is, most of them could be prevented if homeowners took a few simple steps and did proper maintenance. So, let’s all come together with your Huber Heights Heating & Cooling family to spread awareness about fire safety and some helpful tips about HVAC-related fire hazards.
Regular Maintenance
Making sure your HVAC system is well-maintained and functioning properly is all about routine maintenance. It’s recommended to have a professional HVAC technician come in and inspect and service each unit at least once a year. During these visits, they can check for any potential issues like frayed wires, loose connections, or blocked ventilation that could potentially lead to fires. Staying on top of regular maintenance is key to making sure everything is operating safely and smoothly.
Clean Filters and Ducts
Did you know that dirty air filters and clogged ducts can really mess with your HVAC system? Not only do they make it less efficient, but they can also increase the risk of fires. So, make sure you replace those filters as recommended by the manufacturer, usually every one to three months. It’s also a good idea to have your ducts cleaned periodically to keep all that dust and debris from piling up within your ductwork, which is another fire hazard.
Monitor Electrical Components
Faulty electrical components can pose a serious fire risk. So, it’s important to stay vigilant and watch out for warning signs like flickering lights, tripped circuit breakers or weird burnt smells coming from your HVAC unit. If you notice any of these issues, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional right away.
Keep Combustibles Away
Make sure to keep flammable materials or chemicals away from your HVAC units. You don’t want anything to catch fire if there’s a malfunction or overheating. It’s a good idea to maintain some clear space around your HVAC equipment to minimize the risk of fire spreading. Try to provide sufficient space for air to flow properly around the unit. Furthermore, it’s important to be mindful of keeping flammable items away from your HVAC units. Things like cardboard, paper, fabric, rags, paint, cleaning solutions, or any other household chemicals should never be kept near, around, or in front of the unit.
Install Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Make sure your home is equipped with smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. Place in the main living spaces of your home. We highly recommend having them on every level of your home if possible. Lastly, don’t forget that your detectors need regular maintenance too. They should be tested monthly just to confirm they still work, and batteries should be changed out at least once a year.
Have a Fire Escape Plan
In case of a fire, it’s important to have a well-practiced fire escape plan. Make sure everyone knows the quickest exits, and choose a safe meeting spot outside your home. It’s crucial that everyone understands the plan and is ready to follow it.
HVAC systems are super important for keeping our homes cozy and comfortable. But, as with all things, negligence can turn into a safety or fire hazard if not properly taken care of. Feel free to give us a call to learn more about our Whole Home Protection Plan, our carefully curated package to make taking care of your home and HVAC system seamless and easy. We’ve got you covered when it comes to keeping your home and HVAC system in tip-top shape!
Call Huber Heights Heating & Cooling today at (937) 226-9675, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
