Experiencing a house fire caused by your furnace can be a traumatic experience. Understanding what causes them and how to prevent them can help you feel more secure when you turn on your heating system in your home. Below, learn what you should know about why furnace blazes may occur, and what you can do to stop them.

Causes of Furnace Fires

Furnaces can cause fires for a number of reasons. One of the most common culprits is machine overheating. When the system’s air filter becomes clogged, it forces the motor to work overtime to heat up the home according to your temperature preferences. Even an accumulation of dirt and debris covering the motor can put it at risk of igniting.

Occasionally, poor electrical wiring is to blame, and you might be able to smell it burning before the fire actually breaks out in that case. If the heating system is situated in a tight, cramped room crowded with other materials, there’s naturally a greater risk of a fire breaking out. That’s because any potentially flammable materials in the space could combust, creating a dangerous situation.

How to Prevent Them   

Regular heating system maintenance is vital to the health and longevity of your system. HVAC contractors will perform a comprehensive assessment of all of the furnace’s vital parts to ensure that they’re running efficiently and not compromised or in danger of overheating. Make a habit of replacing the filter at least once every two to three months to ensure that the system runs as smoothly as possible.

Take stock of the room where your furnace is located, too. Anything with paper or fabric has the potential to ignite, but you shouldn’t take a risk with any type of material. Leave a sufficient amount of clearance space around the appliance for your safety. This will also make it much easier for your contractor to perform heating repairs and maintenance as needed.
 

Homeowners throughout Northern Westchester County, NY, trust in the team at Sunshine Air Conditioning and Heating in Yorktown Heights, NY, for all of their heating system maintenance and repair needs. Proudly serving Peekskill and Cortland, they also offer air conditioning repairs, furnace installation, and general HVAC services. Visit the website for information, or call (914) 245-2050 to schedule an appointment.