Winter Safety HVAC Tips
Even if you live in a very mild climate, you are likely to use some type of heating system in your home. And it is very important that you use the system carefully. Especially if you use your heating system only on occasion, these safety tips will help keep increase air quality in your home and protect you and your loved ones from some life-threatening issues.
Safety First With CO Monitors
We all want to remain comfortable in our homes. And in the winter months, even in a mild climate, we tend to close the house up tight to keep warm. But the problem is that gases and other pollutants can build up inside your home. Any time you are using an appliance fueled by natural gas, carbon monoxide is created. It could be a gas stove, clothes dryer, or even a fireplace insert. But all of these introduce toxic carbon monoxide into your home.
And if you are keeping the doors and windows closed, that gas can build up to life-threatening levels. Unfortunately, the gas has no smell to warn you of the problem. The only way to ensure your safety and the safety of your loved ones is with a carbon monoxide monitor. These monitors work much like a smoke detector. These devices are very inexpensive and easy to install. So make sure your home is equipped with monitors and that you test them regularly.
Set A Safe Minimum
Some homeowners will do almost anything to avoid turning on their heat in the wintertime. And while it might represent a slight cost savings, it is not worth the risks. First, there is a decrease in your comfort level. You might find that you are not sleeping well, develop a cough, and feel run down. And the culprit is cold air. Small children and pets are even more susceptible to the cold than adults. A good minimum temperature for your home is 68 degrees. This is warm enough to be safe for small children and pets without worrying about temperature-related health and safety issues.
You Don’t Know What You Don’t Know
Even if you think that you will not need to use your heater this winter, it is good to turn it on and have it inspected and serviced. Unless you are proactive about having the unit services, you could be discovering a problem during an unexpected cold snap. And at that point, it is too late.
Remember, you can add a sweater or blanket. But the water lines and plumbing fixtures in your home rely on your heater to keep them from freezing. And once the water lines freeze, you could be facing tens of thousands of dollars in water damage. As the pipes thaw, you might discover numerous water leaks in your walls, floors, and ceilings.
Making decisions that impact your loved ones’ safety, and your home should never be based on affordability. At Parobek Plumbing & Air Conditioning, our team understands that every household runs on a budget. And our goal is always to offer the most cost-effective maintenance and repair options in the area.
We offer very affordable HVAC service programs. Our service will increase its longevity so that you get the most benefit possible from your investment in your heating and cooling system. Call us at (512) 910-8123 to schedule service for your HVAC system. We offer appointments in the evening and on the weekends to work in your busy schedule. And if we discover an issue, know that we will provide you with a free price quote for any necessary repairs.
