With fall right around the corner, people are preparing to turn their furnaces on to provide much-needed warmth for themselves and their families. Since these devices have been off for months, it's essential to ensure they are still in working condition to avoid any unsafe situations. To keep everyone safe this fall and winter, check these tips before your furnace is completely up and running. 

Furnace Safety Tips You Need to Know

1. Complete All Maintenance Work 

Near each bedroom and living space, there should be properly functioning smoke and carbon dioxide detectors. These are typically devices that are kept out of sight, but they still require proper maintenance. Each month, test the units for functionality by pressing the button on the back of the device. If you don't hear anything, it's time to replace the batteries.  

2. Keep Up With Inspections

Schedule an inspection with an HVAC professional before turning on the furnace for the season. They can see if there are any issues—such as a clogged filter, a faulty ignition, or a broken thermostat—that you might not have noticed and fix the problems before they turn into much costlier repairs. By being proactive with maintenance, you can save money and keep your family safe.

3. Be Aware of Valve Locations

Along with proper maintenance comes the ability to operate the machinery on an introductory level. This should include turning the main gas valve on and off. The gas valve leads directly to the furnace itself, so by being able to identify it quickly, you can shut off the power immediately if there’s an emergency, such as if you smell a gas leak.

4. Always Have Proper Precautions on Hand

There should always be a fire extinguisher near the furnace in case of an accident. Everyone in your family should also know how to use the extinguisher in case a fire were to break out when you aren't around.

Keeping your family safe is your top priority, so trust the HVAC professionals at A & B Heating & Air Conditioning in Burlington, KY, for all of your furnace maintenance needs. Serving Boone County, their licensed technicians have the skills and experience to keep your family safe. Visit their website for more information on their services, or call (859) 525-0100 to schedule an inspection.