As fall approaches, and nighttime desert temperatures dip into the 50s, homeowners are reminded that it will soon be time to fire up the furnace for the first time this season. We recommend an autumn service call to make sure the “H” in your HVAC is tuned up and ready to go. Many Arizona homes have gas furnaces, while others utilize heat pumps or electric wall or baseboard heaters. Whatever type of heat source you have installed in your home, it is always a good idea to have your unit inspected before you turn it on for the first time.
My Furnace Never Gives Me Any Problems – What Could Possibly Go Wrong?
Most electric heaters and gas furnaces are manufactured to high standards and work reliably for years. However, the fact is, when gas and electricity are involved, the potential for danger exists. The National Fire Protection Association website states, “Heating equipment is a leading cause of fires in U.S. homes. Local fire departments responded to an estimated average of 52,050 fires involving heating equipment each year in 2012-2016.”
It is not our intention to promote fear or scare homeowners. Rather, we simply believe in putting safety first. Remember, depending on when your home was built, your furnace may be decades old.
Here are a few home heat safety precautions to consider:
Furnace Reminders
Summers last a long time in Phoenix. We often completely forget about our furnaces from April through October. Over the years, we have seen furnaces cluttered with boxes or used as temporary storage shelves during the summer. Remember, it’s critical to keep the area around your furnace completely clear. Furnaces require the free flow of oxygen to operate effectively. Also, clutter and flammable materials can be extremely dangerous if placed near your furnace. Paint cans, cleaning solutions, old rags and newspapers, to name a few, should not be anywhere near your furnace.
Heat Pumps
During a fall checkup, our friendly service technicians will inspect the blower and coil for dirt and other obstructions which can cause your unit to operate inefficiently. We will also inspect wiring, connections and electric terminals to make sure they are safe and ready for winter.
Air Filters
Replacing air filters on a regular basis is always advisable. During a fall tune up, we not only replace the air filters, we also vacuum the dust and debris which accumulates on your furnace over the summer months. We often receive calls from customers who have fired up their furnace and are concerned about the burning smell. In many cases, it is simply dust being burned off the unit. If you ever notice a burning smell in your home after turning on your furnace, you should stop what you are doing and check into it immediately.
October and November Are the Ideal Months to Schedule Your Fall Service Call
The first time you notice the autumn chill in the air, remember to call us for a fall checkup. Our friendly service technicians will inspect your entire HVAC system and get you ready for the cooler weather ahead.
