Safely Beat Old Man Winter

Is the chill of winter creeping in and around your house? The best defense is making sure your home’s heating system is properly maintained. Follow these tips for extra efficiency and warmth:

1. Have a professional inspect your heating system once per year.

2. Replace air filters often, per the manufacturer’s recommendation.

3. Seal up air leaks and add insulation around the house.

4. Clean registers and make sure they are not blocked by furniture, carpets, or drapes.

Above and beyond that, some homeowners opt for alternative heating devices such as wood-burning stoves and space heaters.  While these can be comforting and warming, they can also become a fire hazard.  The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates that space heaters are associated with about 21,800 residential fires every year.

If you use alternative heating sources, make safety a top priority.  Look for products tested by Underwriters Laboratory (UL).  Do not leave a heater unattended.  Check every electrical cord for fraying and cracking.  If one looks worn, replace it before using.  Never use a kerosene heater indoors.  If using a wood fireplace or wood-burning stove, have it inspected and cleaned at least once a year by a professional chimney sweep.  When using a gas fireplace, keep the glowing embers and logs clean, inspect and clean the air circulation passages and fan, and avoid obstructing the vents.  For more winter heating tips, go to disastersafety.org.