Did you know that heating appliances are the second-highest cause of house fires? As the weather cools down and you turn on your heat, it's important to keep safety in mind. By following these simple tips, you can help prevent heating-related fires and keep your home safe.
Now, let's take a closer look at these tips and how they can help protect your home.
While it's rare, a clogged air filter can contribute to a house fire. When your filter hasn’t been changed for months, airflow is blocked, causing your heating system to overwork and overheat. The blower motor is especially at risk of overheating in this situation.
To avoid this, make sure you change your air filter regularly. A clean filter will help your heating system run efficiently and safely.
It’s important to keep any flammable objects at least three feet away from your heating system, fireplace, or space heater. Items like paper, fabric, or furniture that are too close to these heat sources could catch fire.
When in doubt, keep the area around your heat sources clear. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.
Blocked vents can restrict airflow, just like a clogged air filter. Whether it's blocked by furniture, clothes, or boxes, restricted airflow can cause your system to work harder than necessary. While it's unlikely this would lead to a furnace fire, it's not impossible.
Make sure your vents are free of obstructions so air can flow freely through your home.
While there’s a lot you can do to prevent fires on your own, regular furnace maintenance is essential for preventing issues you might not be able to detect. One potential cause of a furnace fire is called furnace flame rollout. This happens when your furnace flue is blocked, or the system doesn't have a proper automatic shut-off switch.
Without enough oxygen due to blockages, the flames in your furnace can roll out of the combustion chamber, trying to find oxygen. This, along with issues like a cracked heat exchanger, could lead to a fire.
That's why it's so important to schedule a furnace tune-up every year. A qualified technician from Parker & Sons can inspect, clean, and ensure that all components of your heating system are functioning properly, helping you avoid potential fire hazards.
Preventing heating-related fires is all about staying proactive. By following these simple tips and scheduling regular maintenance for your heating system, you can enjoy the warmth of your home without worrying about safety.
If you're due for a furnace tune-up, don't wait. Contact Parker & Sons today to schedule a thorough inspection and keep your Phoenix home safe.
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