October, which is designated as National Fire Prevention Month, was originally observed to span a week to commemorate The Great Chicago Fire of 1871. Today, it has now expanded to encompass the entire month. Each year, approximately 358,500 house fires occur across the United States. Surprisingly enough, many house fires are preventable through the adoption of simple preventive measures and proper maintenance. Join us, your Fairfield-Hamilton Heating & Cooling team, as we ignite the flame of safety awareness, aiming to keep you and your family safe from the threat of house fires.
Common HVAC Fire Hazards:
Understanding that HVAC systems are not inherently hazardous is essential, first of all. However, improper practices and negligence can lead to severe consequences. So, familiarizing yourself with common HVAC-related fire hazards is crucial to preventing them.
Are There Electrical Issues?
Among the most frequent causes of HVAC-related fires are electrical problems. In many cases, the complete history of an HVAC unit is unavailable when purchasing a home. Over time, aging units can experience issues with old wiring and circuits. This is why we stress the importance of knowing the condition of your HVAC units. If you cannot recall the last time you scheduled your regular maintenance check, we encourage you to contact us. Regular maintenance is vital for preventing potentially dangerous situations.
Is There Clutter Around the Units?
The potential for clutter around HVAC units depends on their location. Some units are installed in garages or basements, where homeowners often use the space for storage. But whether your unit is located in a garage, basement, designated closet, or elsewhere in your home, it is crucial to keep the area clear of clutter and ensure adequate airflow around it. Moreover, it is a good idea to keep boxes, paint cans, chemicals, and cleaning solutions away from the vicinity as well.
Was the Unit Properly Installed?
Improper installation is another common reason behind HVAC-related fires. The installation of an HVAC unit involves numerous intricate details. Poorly installed units can remain unnoticed for years without regular servicing. To avoid this risk, always collaborate with a licensed HVAC company that employs certified technicians for installations and ensure you schedule your routine maintenance checks.
Fire Prevention Tips from Your Fairfield-Hamilton Heating & Cooling Professionals:
- Develop a comprehensive escape plan that includes all family members, including small children. You should designate a well-known meeting spot outside the house to gather in case of a fire.
- Prioritize safety by installing Carbon Monoxide & Explosive Gas Detectors in your home, capable of detecting carbon monoxide, methane, and propane.
- Ensure you have smoke detectors on every level of your home, including the basement. Additionally, place smoke detectors outside sleeping areas, such as hallways.
- Regularly test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors monthly. Yearly battery replacement is a good rule of thumb.
- Bear in mind that smoke alarms have a limited lifespan of approximately ten years, so check the manufacturing date on the back and replace them accordingly.
- Maintain a fire extinguisher on each level of your home, ideally in easily accessible common areas.
- Experts recommend keeping bedroom doors closed at night to slow the spread of fire, a strategy known to save lives.
Fairfield-Hamilton Heating & Cooling genuinely cares about your family’s safety and strives to equip you with the necessary tools and knowledge. Consistent annual maintenance is vital to ensure your HVAC system meets current standards and operates efficiently. Contact us to learn more about our Whole Home Protection Plan, dedicated to keeping your home and HVAC system in optimal condition. We have your back, safeguarding your home and loved ones with proper maintenance.
Call Fairfield-Hamilton Heating & Cooling today at (513) 540-1716, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
