Here’s How to Heat Your Home Safely All Winter Long
The arrival of cooler weather is a good reminder to do annual maintenance checks on your home heating equipment. Wood stoves and pellet stoves should be cleaned and tested, while portable heaters, electric fireplaces, smoke alarms, and carbon monoxide detectors may require new filters and batteries. Your furnace and HVAC system should also be inspected by a qualified technician. Ticking these items off your to-do list will help ensure safe, trouble-free heating all winter long.
Smoke Detectors and CO Detectors
Carbon monoxide detectors and smoke alarms are potential life-savers in the event of a gas leak or fire. They belong in every home and may be required by law where you live. The shrill alarm of a CO detector signals the presence of dangerous fumes from an appliance leak or other malfunction so you and your family can move to safety. Available as single-purpose or convenient dual-sensor units, they are relatively easy to install yourself. Models that offer remote monitoring will alert you to any potential issues when you’re away from home.
Proper maintenance and system checks will ensure a safe, stress-free heating season even before the first snowflakes appear. Having the right replacement parts and accessories on hand will also help provide peace of mind. Also, remember to schedule your HVAC, fireplace, and chimney inspections early or you might have to wait weeks for an appointment.