Being the victim of an accidental house fire is a scary experience and could be devastating. During the winter months, the risk of house fires increases. This is because more people are inside more often. The electricity is almost always on, furnaces are engaged, holiday candles are lit, and the home fireplaces are in regular use. Here are a few tips, including furnace repair in Saratoga, CA that will help keep your home safe this winter.
Check the Smoke Detectors
First thing first, you want to be sure the smoke detectors throughout your home are in working order. They are what will help keep you and your family safe during this high-risk season. Go room to room and remove the covers, blow away the dust, and replace the batteries. Run the test on the system to make sure the alarms go off, that way you know you can depend on them in case of a fire emergency.
Furnace Repair and Maintenance
Furnace repair is one of the most important home maintenance tasks you perform this winter. During this season, the furnace works hard to keep your home comfortable. But you also want to be sure it is working safely and efficiently. It isn’t too late for an annual furnace check-up and service. A technician can come out, inspect your system, clean it, and make sure everything is working as efficiently as possible. This one easy step will help you lower the risk of breakdowns and emergency furnace repair.
Unblock the Vents
The heating vents around your home help supply warm air all winter long. You might think that closing vents in certain areas that don’t see much use will help save on heating costs. But that isn’t true. It can actually make your system work harder to supply heat to the home. Obstructing vents with curtains, furniture, or rugs will not only reduce the efficiency of the system but also could increase the risk of fire.
Use your Fireplace Safely
If you use a fireplace in your home, keep a glass or metal screen in front of the fire to prevent sparks and embers from flying out. You also need to get your chimneys and vents checked and cleaned regularly to make sure there are no hazards. And be sure to turn off or put out the fire completely before you go to bed.
Avoid Using Space Heaters
Portable space heaters may be tempting, especially on chilly nights. They are not as expensive to run as the furnace and do a decent job of keeping a room warm. But portable heaters can also be very dangerous. If you do choose to use them in your home, make sure you use them safely. Keep pets and children away from the heaters. Never leave a space heater plugged in and running while you are sleeping or not in the room.
For more tips on keeping your home comfortable and furnace repair in Saratoga, CA contact Pelle Heating & Air Conditioning.
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