3 Basic HVAC Safety Tips for Winter
Winter is practically here, which means you'll be relying on home heating equipment on a regular basis. Whether you have a boiler or gas furnace, your household's safety is of paramount importance. While an HVAC repair specialist can service equipment after a problem arises, there are additional steps you can take to keep your home safe and comfortable.
How Can You Increase the Safety of Your HVAC System in Winter?
1. Know How to Shut Off the Gas at the Main Valve
If you detect the odor of natural gas in your home or are aware of damage to gas lines, you should notify your utility provider immediately. However, you should also shut off the gas at the main valve. In many cases, the shut-off valve is located outside the home near the gas meter. Use a wrench to turn the knob from its original vertical position to a horizontal position, which is usually a quarter turn. Don't go back inside the home until the issue has been evaluated and repaired.
2. Install Surge Protectors
A harsh winter storm can result in an electrical surge, which could cause massive damage to the electrical components in HVAC equipment. Surge protectors divert excess voltage away from heating units to prevent problems or even total failure. In addition to enhancing safety, they also save you from having to replace expensive equipment. Installing surge protectors can be complex, depending on the type of system you have, so leave the job to professional technicians to ensure it's done right.
3. Ensure Proper Airflow Around Boilers
Boilers use hot water or steam to heat the home during winter. Once the liquid reaches the proper temperature, it's moved through a series of pipes to radiators, which provide heat to the rooms they're situated in.
Boilers require airflow to function correctly, and when air into the unit is blocked, you face some serious risks. Airflow restriction increases pressure within the equipment, which could cause carbon monoxide to accumulate or even result in an explosion. Move furniture, boxes, and other obstructions far away from boilers to avoid complications.
If you need fast and efficient HVAC repair and safety tips, reach out to Vashon Heating & Cooling in Washington. They are backed by more than 35 years of experience and are always happy to share their knowledge with customers. Their team serves clients throughout Vashon and King County and has experience with gas furnaces, boilers, and heat pumps. They offer everything from HVAC repairs and maintenance to new equipment installation. They can even help boost your home's indoor air quality through their purifier service. Call
(206) 463-1777 to schedule a free estimate, and visit the website to learn more about their services.