When the weather gets cold,
the air conditioners go off and the furnaces get kicked on. And while that
pleasant blast of warm air may be almost instantaneous, there are measures
that you should take to ensure your furnace is functioning properly and
will give you the safest, most efficient heat this winter.
Prior to the start of the
cold season:
-
Have your furnace checked and
cleaned each year by a professional. The furnace check-up should include
the furnace itself, the chimney, vents, and gas and fuel lines. Also, have
the serviceperson check the wall and ceiling near the furnace in this checkup.
If the wall or ceiling is hot, the service person may recommend that additional
insulation be placed in this area or more clearance needed.
-
Make sure the flame in the furnace
burner is a bright, steady blue color. It should never come outside the
furnace.
-
Make sure air filters are clean
and replaced according to instructions.
-
Do not keep any flammable objects,
including trash and other combustible items near the furnace.
-
Make sure that furnace panels
and grills are in place and that the fan compartment door is closed when
the furnace is on.
-
Examine the unit to see that
it is free of dust, rust, or any other signs of corrosion.
Depending on the type of fuel
your furnace uses, there are other safety concerns you should be aware
of. The instruction manual that was a part of the heating system when it
was installed will give you information about these precautions. If these
instructions are unavailable, the manufacturer of your furnace may be able
to supply you with this information. You may also be able to get this information
from professionals who service the type of furnace you have in your home.
In addition to having you
furnace inspected, you should have other appliances, such as water heaters,
boilers, and other fuel-burning appliances checked for possible carbon
monoxide leaks and fire hazards
