As temperatures begin to drop, homeowners are turning on furnaces, fireplaces, wood stoves, and space heaters for the first time in months. Before heating systems are put into regular use, a little preventative maintenance can go a long way in reducing the risk of fires, carbon monoxide exposure, and costly property damage.
Home Heating Safety Checklist
Schedule a Heating System Inspection
- Have furnaces, boilers, and heat pumps professionally serviced before the heating season begins.
- Replace furnace filters regularly to improve efficiency and reduce strain on your system.
- Ensure vents and air returns are free from dust and obstructions.
Inspect Your Fireplace & Chimney
- Have chimneys professionally inspected and cleaned to remove creosote buildup.
- Check the chimney cap for damage and ensure it is free of nests or debris.
- Always use a fireplace screen to prevent sparks from escaping.
Use Space Heaters Safely
- Keep space heaters at least three feet away from furniture, curtains, bedding, and other combustible materials.
- Place heaters on a flat, stable surface — never on furniture or countertops.
- Turn space heaters off whenever you leave the room or go to sleep.
- Plug space heaters directly into a wall outlet — avoid extension cords and power strips.
Protect Against Carbon Monoxide
- Test carbon monoxide and smoke alarms monthly.
- Replace batteries at least once a year or as recommended by the manufacturer.
- Never use generators, grills, or fuel-burning appliances indoors or inside attached garages.
Stock Up for Winter
- Inspect weather stripping around doors and windows.
- Keep heating vents clear of furniture and storage boxes.
- Know where your fuel shutoff valves and electrical panel are located in case of an emergency.
For a downloadable checklist to share, please click here.
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October Fun Fact:
The tradition of carving pumpkins comes from an Irish legend about “Stingy Jack.” Originally, people carved turnips and potatoes before the practice evolved into using pumpkins after the tradition came to North America.