Did you know that October is National Fire Prevention Month? It’s a whole month dedicated to raising awareness about fire safety. Originally, it started as a week to remember The Great Chicago Fire of 1871, but now it’s extended to cover the entire month. It’s pretty shocking that about 358,500 house fires happen every year in the United States alone. The good news is most of these incidents could be avoided with simple steps and proper home maintenance. As part of the Lebanon Heating & Cooling family, let’s work together to keep you safe from potential house fires. Join us in spreading awareness about fire safety regarding your HVAC system.
Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance is fundamental to ensuring HVAC fire safety. It is recommended to have a professional HVAC technician inspect and service both your air conditioner and furnace at least once a year. During these visits, they can identify and rectify any potential issues, such as frayed wires, loose connections, or blocked ventilation, which may pose a fire hazard. Preventative care is the best way to stay on top of fire safety and safety in general!
Clean Filters and Ductwork
Dirty air filters and clogged ducts can compromise the efficiency of your HVAC system while also posing a true fire hazard. So, it is important to replace filters as recommended by the manufacturer, typically, this means replacing them every one to three months. In addition, regular ductwork cleaning is advised to prevent the accumulation of dust and debris. As a general rule, ducts should be cleaned every three to five years.
Monitor Electrical Components
Faulty electrical components pose another substantial fire hazard. So, be vigilant for indications like flickering lights, tripped circuit breakers, or odors of burning emanating from your HVAC system. These are all telltale signs there is an underlying problem going on. Should you detect any of these problems, please contact a professional as soon as you can!
Keep Flammables/Combustibles Away
It is advisable to refrain from storing flammable materials or chemicals in close proximity to your HVAC units. This precaution is crucial as any malfunction or overheating issue can potentially trigger ignition. For this reason, ensuring a clear space around your HVAC equipment is essential to minimize the risk of fire spreading.
Install Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Make sure that your home is equipped with both smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. Place them strategically in key areas of your home. On top of that, it is important to regularly test them once a month and replace their batteries at least once a year to ensure proper operation.
Have a Fire Escape Plan
In case of a fire, it is crucial to have a well-rehearsed fire escape plan in place. Verify that everyone in your household, including children, is familiar with the exits and assign a secure meeting spot outside your residence. Then ensure that everyone comprehends the plan and is ready to adhere to it.
By following these HVAC fire safety tips, you can mitigate the risk of fires and have the reassurance that your HVAC system operates securely. We suggest staying on top of your regular maintenance to ensure your HVAC system meets current standards and runs smoothly. Additionally, we want to make it easy for you to maintain your home and HVAC system, so please give us a call to learn more about our Whole Home Protection Plan, which is designed to help you keep your home and HVAC system in great shape in a seamless manner. You can rely on us to partner with you in properly safeguarding your home!
Call Lebanon Heating & Cooling today at (513) 540-1773, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
