With the cold weather we all tend to spend the majority of our time in our homes trying to stay warm. While sometimes snuggling in bed and drinking hot cocoa will do the trick, Midway Services is here with some tips on how to stay warm (and safe!) this winter.
Install Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Confirm you have carbon monoxide (CO) detectors installed on each floor of your home, specifically near bedrooms, and test them to verify they are functioning. Since CO cannot be detected because it is odorless and invisible, it’s important that you have operating CO detectors to make sure your home is safe.
Get Your Chimney Inspection
This is the ideal time of year to get the fireplace roaring, but before you do, be sure you have your chimney cleaned and examined by a specialist. The fireplace may be a source of CO if you don’t keep it properly cleaned and maintained.
Be Careful with Space Heaters
Space heaters are generally safe, energy efficient, and a helpful way to heat small areas of your home, but confirm it has been authorized by a recognized testing laboratory and contains an automatic shut-off feature. Obey all manufacturer’s instructions and be sure it is placed on a hard, level surface at least 3 feet away from anything flammable.
Furnace Tune-Up
With a heating tune-up from Midway Services in Clearwater, we will perform a safety check of your heating equipment to ensure there are no leaks or carbon monoxide issues. Along with a furnace tune-up, make sure your heating vents are not obstructed and that you’re replacing your air filter each month. This will prevent the air flow from becoming restricted and help stop allergens from exacerbating respiratory issues.
If You Need Help Staying Warm, Ask
There are proper ways and wrong ways to make sure your home is heated – using the oven, a grill, or a camp stove are all wrong ways. Using these devices to heat your home could create a fire or a dangerous reserve of carbon monoxide. If you need support paying your heating bills, visit NeedHelpPayingBills.com to find a service near you.
To be sure your home is ready to keep you safe and warm through the winter, call Midway Services at 727-219-2471 today.