Heating season is upon us and there are precautions everyone should take with their home heating systems, chimneys, and all venting for that matter. When it comes to safety, we recommend a professional inspection of these areas of concern. Carbon Monoxide Detectors or alarms, as well as fire alarms, should be present with fresh batteries in them.

Carbon monoxide is the leading cause of accidental poisoning deaths in America and is totally preventable. (Centers for Disease Control) Carbon Monoxide or CO is a natural by-product of combustion from fuel-burning appliances and is invisible to human senses.  It can cause brain damage or death. CO alarms should be replaced every five to seven years to benefit from the latest technology upgrades. To protect yourself and your loved ones from the threat of carbon monoxide and other dangerous gases, your HVAC technician should check the functionality of your carbon monoxide detector and any other power systems related to your detector including but not limited to:

• Missing HVAC equipment parts
• Clogged heater draft hood
• Flue gas spillage

Heating systems should be inspected annually. Just like that popular commercial states, “We know a thing or two because we’ve seen a thing or two!” You can’t imagine the things that can happen to HVAC equipment, from dead rodents to stray Mylar balloons being trapped in a filter!

Chimneys and flues should be inspected for possible blockages annually, a certified chimney sweep can look at your chimney from all angles and are equipped to make any repairs necessary. Below are items to consider in the maintenance of your heating system:

• Inspecting the Heat Exchanger. Without proper functioning, your heating system will not be able to run efficiently and may pose serious danger if it is compromised.
• Cleaning your system’s burners
• Inspecting all safety switches
• Cleaning and inspecting of system’s blower motors, which may also include lubrication
• Checking fan belts for any signs of cracking or breakage
• Check the thermostat to be sure your furnace is firing correctly.
• Collect flue gas samples to test your system’s efficiency level.
• Replacing Air Filters that can become clogged.
• Inspecting and assuring that all vents are properly installed
• Replacing oil furnace nozzles and fuel filters
• Checking Drain Lines

Frontier Heating stands ready to serve you! We are family-owned and operated and have been in business since 1991. We are more than happy to help you with all of your HVAC needs. Whether you want to email us, phone us or stop in, we are ready to help you in any way we can.  Let us help you stay safe and warm this Fall and Winter Season!