Fires Involving Heating Equipments

You might be surprised to learn that heating equipment is the second-leading cause of home fires. Additionally, the amount of fires caused by heat pumps and air conditioners is comparable, so it’s critical to be aware of any possible issues with either system before they result in a fire. 

Here are a few things to think about:

Keeping combustible substances close by

It’s never a good idea to have flammable items like paper, furniture, curtains, clothing, cushions, leaves, or fuel close to your heating or cooling units. You should provide at least a 3-foot space between any form of heating equipment and flammable objects because the risk is too severe.

Lack of Maintenance

There may be a higher risk of fire when your heating and cooling system is not properly maintained. For instance, blocked and very dirty filters will restrict airflow and cause the motors to overheat. The motor may heat up if dirt builds up around it and acts as insulation. 

You can have damaged wiring or defective parts that cause a high voltage or tight bearing. Lack of lubrication may have resulted in tight or damaged motor bearings, which can heat up when dry and finally catch fire.

Using Space Heaters Carelessly

It’s critical to use heating appliances in accordance with safety regulations because, according to BFP, they were the second-leading cause of residential fires in 2014. Never use an extension cord with a space heater, keep them away from anything that could catch fire, and turn them off before going to bed or leaving the house. Additional space heater safety advice is provided by the Bureau of Fire Protection.

Portable Kerosene Heaters

Use only the fuel that the maker recommends if your space heater is liquid-fueled. Never use gasoline or any other substitute fuel as the incorrect fuel could create a serious fire by burning hotter than the equipment’s design limits. Always switch off the heater before refueling to allow it to finish cooling down. 

Clean up spills right away. Check with your neighborhood fire department to see if purchasing a kerosene heater is permitted in your area before making the decision. Make sure the bottle is clearly labeled with the fuel name and that you store the kerosene away from heat sources and open flames.

Rollouts of the furnace flame

A closed combustion area is genuinely capable of having flames escape and roll out. It takes place when the ventilation system isn’t supplying the furnace with enough oxygen. Sometimes an obstacle like a bird’s nest or yard debris clogging the outside vent can lead to soot buildup in the flue, which would restrict oxygen supply. 

You should get in touch with an HVAC expert immediately away if you notice damaged parts on the outside or discoloration on your furnace cover.

Keep a fire extinguisher on hand in your kitchen and next to any significant heat sources because it’s important to prepare for the worst case scenario while hoping for the best. Make sure there are functioning smoke detectors on each story of your house.

Tips for Preventing Heating Equipments Fire

Tips for preventing home heating fires. According to the Bureau of  Fire Protection, between 2013 and 2017, heating equipment was responsible for an estimated 10,500 residential fires and 200 fatalities. 

Take a look at these safety recommendations to learn more:

• A portable space heater, fireplace, or furnace should be kept at least three feet away from anything that can burn.
• A three-foot “kid-free zone” should be established around open fires and space heaters.
• Never heat your house with the oven on.
• Have stationary space heating equipment, water heaters, or central heating equipment installed by a qualified professional in accordance with local codes and manufacturer’s instructions.
• Whenever you leave the room or get into bed, don’t forget to turn off portable heaters.
• Always use the proper fuel for fuel-burning space heaters, as recommended by the manufacturer.
• A strong screen over the fireplace should be present to prevent sparks from flying into the space. Before placing ashes in a metal container, they must be cool. Keep the container far enough away from your house to be safe.
• At least once every month, test the smoke alarms.
• Never Use a Heating Appliance with a Damaged Cord
• Do Not Leave Your Heater on Overnight
• Always Go for Professional Installation
• Do Not Bring an Outdoor Heater Inside Your Home

Conclusion

This heating equipment, which is well-functioning and not used appropriately despite the precautions of having it in your home, is one of the causes of home fires. Always make sure to heed the tips above for your future reference in order to be more accurate and to avoid any  fire issues.

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