Even though Yuma residents don’t have to worry about winter hazards like icy roads or subfreezing temperatures, winter home safety is still an issue. Heating systems may not run as long, but they, and other appliances, still pose a hazard. These tips can help you minimize the risks cold weather brings.
- Have your heating system serviced by an HVAC pro. Heat pumps work hard all summer and entering the heating season with one that’s tuned up will lower your heating costs.
If you heat with gas, professional attention will assure you that it’s running safely and efficiently. When an HVAC technician goes through it, he will check the fuel to air ratio, make sure the flue is clear and all its safety switches work.
- Some people use space heaters in the Yuma area to provide supplemental heat instead of turning up the furnace. If you do, either plug the space heater into a wall outlet directly, or use an extension cord rated for the amps of the heater.
Use the shortest cord possible without creating a tripping hazard for winter home safety. Using an underrated extension cord for a space heater can result in an electrical fire.
- Check the smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) detector batteries. Unless they’re hard-wired into your home, make a note to check the CO detectors every month or two, especially if you use any gas appliances. Furnaces run longer at night, and CO detectors are your only defense against rising CO or smoke levels.
- Test the pressure relief valve for the water heater by pushing it down. It should release some water. If it doesn’t, have a plumber replace it.
Should the water heater overheat or build too much pressure, a functional valve releases the pressure. When it can’t, the tank could explode.
Yuma may not face the same challenges that people up north do, but winter home safety is still important for your health and that of your home. To more information or to schedule maintenance, contact Hansberger Refrigeration and Electric Company, providing trusted HVAC services for Yuma homeowners.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Yuma, Arizona about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about winter home safety and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Guide or call us at 928-723-3183.
Credit/Copyright Attribution: “openclipart-vectors/Pixabay”
