Heating Systems – What to Watch Out For
We cannot stress enough the importance of regular maintenance, when it comes to your heating system. They need to be inspected every year, including cleaning and tuning by a professional, otherwise they will become a potential hazard to your property. Some of the things that you should watch out for are mentioned below.
1. Fire Hazard.
Heating systems need adequate ventilation to function correctly. That’s why they must be installed with enough clearance between them and walls/ceiling. Shelves, boxes, or other items stored too close to a heating furnace will obstruct the air flow and create a fire hazard.
2. Carbon Monoxide Poisoning.
The greatest danger of a heating system, especially the one fueled by gas, is the potential for carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. CO is a colorless gas without smell, emitted as a byproduct of burning natural gas fuel. You cannot see, smell, or touch it, but CO causes symptoms such as nausea, dizziness and weakness. Overexposure to carbon monoxide can kill, that’s why the danger to life and health is really high.
During a yearly inspection the safety switches on your furnace and the combustion are tested. Also, if there is a pilot light in your furnace, it’s important to exclude any leaks in the heat exchanger, because such leaks let combustion products like carbon monoxide enter your home, creating a serious safety concern. Dirty filters can also contribute to carbon monoxide build-up.
3. Gas Line Leaks
Natural gas, primarily consisting of methane, is typically a non-toxic substance without taste, smell, or color. However, it is a highly flammable fuel. Malfunctioning gas line leading into the house or furnace could allow considerable amounts of gas to leak out. Even a small amount of leaked gas might become a result of a catastrophic explosion and fire.
4. If you have an electric heating system, like a heat pump, it needs to be inspected yearly as well, because running electric heat puts an enormous pressure on your electrical circuits. The wires heating up and cooling down can lead to expansion and loosen connections. A loose connection can lead to burning wires.
Smoke detector preventative maintenance is also a great way to keep your family safe. Install the smoke detector, if you haven’t done so already.
All the mentioned hazards can be eliminated through professional installation, systematic maintenance, and common-sense handling. At Downey Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning we will make sure that your heating system is of no danger to you or your family.
