There’s nothing more comforting than a warm home on a cold evening. But as important as keeping your home comfortable is ensuring you heat it safely. Follow these important winter heating safety tips from Russo Bros. & Co.
Get Your Chimney and Fireplace Serviced
A warm fire can be a great way to add extra heat to a room, but if your fireplace flue is closed or the chimney is damaged, that fire could send poisonous gases back into your home or create a fire in the chimney. Have your fireplace and chimney inspected yearly by a qualified professional.
Check Your Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Winter storms can knock out power to your home. Your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide should have a battery backup with batteries changed yearly.
Enroll in a Heating System Maintenance Program
A professional heating system maintenance program can identify issues with your heating system that can ensure it works efficiently and safely. An annual heating maintenance contract is the best way to protect your system from malfunction and premature failure.
Never Leave Space Heaters Unattended
According to the National Fire Protection Association, space heaters account for about one-third of all home heating fires. In addition to keeping a watchful eye on your space heater, you should plug it directly into an outlet, not an extension cord.
Keep the Space Around Your Heating System Clear
Nothing should lean against your heating system. Ideally, your system should have a three-foot buffer around it.
Don’t Use the Stove or Oven for Heat
Even if the power goes out, your oven or stove should never be used as a heat source.
Keep Firefighting Materials Readily Accessible
With less natural daylight, some homeowners use candles more often in the winter. It’s a good idea to keep a fire extinguisher, tarp, or other firefighting materials somewhere accessible in case of emergency.
Get Help Right Away if You Smell Gas
The smell of gas inside your home is an emergency, and you should immediately call the fire department and evacuate the home.
Rely on Russo Bros. & Co. for Heating Services in Northern New Jersey
Ensure your home is warm and secure this winter by ensuring your heating systems are functioning properly. If you experience strange odors or strange noises coming from your unit, insufficient heating, cold spots, or unusually high heating bills, don’t wait to get help. Reach out to Russo Bros & Co. right away. We’ve provided fast, reliable heating repair services throughout Northern New Jersey for over 65 years.
Call us at (973) 887-1334 today to request heating maintenance, repair, or installation services.
