Did you know that October is designated as National Fire Prevention Month? Originally starting as a week to commemorate The Great Chicago Fire of 1871, it has now been extended to cover the entire month. Astoundingly enough, approximately 358,500 house fires occur annually across the United States. What’s even more surprising, though, is that experts say the majority of these incidents could be prevented through simple steps and proper maintenance by homeowners. Join forces with your Kettering-Oakwood Heating & Air family as we raise awareness about fire safety and give you all the information you need to know about HVAC-related house fires.
Regular Maintenance
Routine maintenance is key to ensuring HVAC fire safety. It’s a good idea to have a professional HVAC technician inspect and service each unit at least once a year. During these visits, they can identify and address any potential issues, like frayed wires, loose connections, or blocked ventilation, that could lead to fires. So, although your HVAC system is not inherently dangerous, you still don’t forget to prioritize regular maintenance for a safer and more secure home!
Clean Filters and Ducts
Air filters and ductwork need a little TLC too! A dirty air filter and clogged ductwork can make your HVAC system less efficient, as clogged filters can increase the risk of fires. So, make sure to replace those filters as recommended by the manufacturer (usually every one to three months). And don’t forget to have your ducts cleaned periodically to keep all that dust and debris at bay. Depending on your need, it’s recommended to have a duct cleaning every three to five years.
Monitor Electrical Components & Faulty Wiring
Faulty electrical components can pose a significant fire risk, so it’s important to stay vigilant. Keep an eye out for warning signs like flickering lights, tripped circuit breakers, or strange burnt smells coming from your HVAC unit. If you happen to notice any of these issues, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional for assistance. Stay safe!
Keep Flammables Away
Make sure to keep flammable materials or chemicals away from your HVAC units. Things like paint cans, or cleaning solutions, cardboard boxes, fabric, paper, or other household chemicals should all be kept away from the unit. If there’s a malfunction or overheating, these can easily ignite. On top of that, remember to maintain a clear space around your HVAC equipment to reduce the risk of fire spreading. Think of it as leaving enough space for proper airflow to circulate around the unit.
Utilize Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Make sure to equip your home with smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors for added safety. They should be strategically placed in important areas of your home. Remember to regularly test all your detectors once a month just to make sure they work, and replace the batteries at least once a year.
Have a Fire Escape Plan
In case of a fire, it’s important to have a well-practiced fire escape plan ready to go. Make sure everyone, including children, knows the quickest exits and where the safe meeting spot outside your home is. It’s crucial that everyone understands the plan and is prepared to follow it.
While HVAC systems are absolutely crucial for keeping our homes comfortable, it’s important to be aware of the potential fire hazards they can pose if not properly maintained or used. Need some more direction on the best way to maintain your home? Contact us to learn more about our Whole Home Protection Plan, our carefully curated package, which is designed to make taking care of your home and HVAC system seamlessly. We’ve got you covered when it comes to keeping your home and HVAC system!
Call Kettering-Oakwood Heating & Air today at (937) 502-3842, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
