Did you know that the furnace room is one of the most dangerous rooms in your home? It’s crucial to take furnace room safety seriously and follow some essential tips to keep yourself and your family safe.
Homeowners tend to disregard furnace room safety because they think there’s no danger as long as you turn off the furnace. However, this is not the case. The furnace room is still dangerous, even when you turn off the heating system. Here are some furnace room safety tips to keep in mind:
Change The Air Filter Frequently
One furnace room safety tip is to change the air filter frequently. A dirty air filter can cause the furnace to overheat and become a fire hazard. Dust, pet dander, pollen, and other impurities can build up on the air filter over time.
Such impurities could accumulate over time and block the appliance. Consequently, maintaining the required temperature will require more effort from your furnace. It raises utility costs and strains essential components. If you use the furnace under these circumstances, it will ultimately malfunction when you least expect it, making your home frigid and hazardous to your health.
Change the air filters at least once every three months to reduce the risk of furnace problems and keep your home safe.
Keep Combustible Materials Away from the Furnace
Another furnace room safety tip is to keep combustible materials away from the furnace. It includes items such as paper, boxes, and cleaning supplies. Combustible materials should be kept at least three feet from the furnace to reduce the fire risk.
For individuals using the furnace area as a washing space, avoid keeping garments hanging close to the machinery. Additionally, keep all the containers holding cleaning products and other flammable substances closed to avoid accidental ignition.
Additionally, the furnace may draw vapours from such substances and recirculate them inside the home, endangering human health. Do not allow furniture, carpets, blankets, or anything else to obstruct the airflow. Keep in mind that the unit may quickly get connected by lighter materials like wood chips, sawdust, and paper, which might restrict airflow and cause a fire.
Never Use the Furnace Room for Storage
The furnace room is not a storage space. It’s essential to never use the furnace room for storage. It includes storing holiday decorations, boxes, and other items. The furnace room is dangerous and should only be used for its intended purpose – housing the furnace.
Following these furnace room safety tips can keep yourself and your family safe. Remember, the furnace room is a dangerous place that you should treat with caution.
Ventilate the Furnace Room Properly
One furnace room safety tip is to ventilate the furnace room properly. It means opening a window or door when the furnace is running. It will help to remove any harmful gases that may be present in the furnace room.
It’s also essential to ensure that the furnace room is well-ventilated when doing any work in the room. It includes changing the air filter or performing any other maintenance tasks.
Install a Carbon Monoxide Detector
Another furnace room safety tip is to install a carbon monoxide detector. Carbon monoxide is a colourless and odourless gas that can be deadly. A carbon monoxide detector will alert you if there are high levels of carbon monoxide present in the furnace room.
It is a vital safety precaution, as carbon monoxide poisoning can occur quickly and without warning. You can protect yourself and your family from this potentially deadly gas by installing a carbon monoxide detector.
Conclusion
Following these furnace room safety tips can keep yourself and your family safe. The furnace room is a dangerous place and should be treated with caution. Remember to change the air filter frequently, keep combustible materials away from the furnace, and never use the furnace room for storage. Also, ensure to ventilate the furnace room properly and install a carbon monoxide detector. By taking these precautions, you can ensure that your furnace room is safe for everyone.