Furnace and Fireplace Safety Tips
This checklist will help to keep you cozy and safe during the winter months:
Wood-burning fireplaces
A certified chimney sweep inspection is a must. For heavy use, inspect and clean the chimney annually. For occassional use, inspect and clean every five years. The sweep should inspect for proper operation of the damper and for cracks in the flue liner, as well as sweeping the flue to remove creosote and any other combustion byproducts.
Close the damper when the fireplace is not in use.
Install a chimney cap if you don’t already have one to avoid creatures building their nests in your flue.
When starting a fire, “prime” the flue by holding lit newspaper at the back wall of the firebox to start the warm air rising.
Burn aged, dry hardwood for best results. Fir or pine burns hot and creosote deposits build up in the chimney. Don’t burn construction debris, as it may contain toxic chemicals that will vaporize in the fire and could enter the living space.
Do not clean out the fireplace when the ashes are still hot, and be sure to dispose of the ashes in a place where wayward embers won’t start a fire.
Fireplace with gas starter
If the flame goes out, wait at least five minutes before attempting to re-light the fireplace, allowing time to clear the fireplace of gas.
Be alert for odd-colored flames or unusual odors which are often a sign that the fireplace is not operating properly. In such cases, contact your licensed technician for servicing. Contact the gas company if you smell gas when the unit is turned off.
Gas furnace maintenance
An annual maintenance check of a gas furnace extends the life of the appliance and can avoid any hidden problems. A qualified heating contractor should vacuum out the unit, inspect the heat exchanger for cracks, inspect the blower motor, check the electronics and perform a multipoint checklist to make sure the furnace is operating properly.
Clean or replace the furnace filter frequently during the winter months. This ensures that the air returning from the inside of the home is unobstructed and clean when entering the combustion chamber.
Keep vents, space heaters and baseboards clear of furniture, rugs and drapes to allow for free air movement.
Ensure there is free airflow around your furnace and make sure there are no storage items obstructing the airflow.
Do not store or use combustible materials, such as chemicals, cleaning products, paint, rags, clothing, draperies, paper, gasoline, or flammable vapors and liquids in the vicinity of the furnace.
Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless, and lethal gas that can occur any time there is incomplete combustion or poor venting. Any home that contains fuel-burning appliances, such as a furnace or fireplace, should have a carbon monoxide alarm installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
This information is provided to you as a courtesy from www.GreatTriangleHomes.com