Operating a gas furnace in your greater Butler County or Greater Cincinnati home is one of the safest and most efficient ways to heat your home. However, any time equipment burns combustible fuel inside the home, there are certain safety precautions that should be taken. Follow these tips to ensure gas furnace safety.

Schedule preventive HVAC maintenance
The best way to keep your furnace operating safely is to have your system maintained every year. A comprehensive furnace tune-up by a qualified HVAC technician will include checking for dangerous carbon monoxide leaks, tightening gas and electrical connections to reduce fire hazards, and lubricating the moving parts of your system to reduce friction and prevent overheating. 

Maintain your furnace
In addition to annual preventive maintenance for your furnace, there are several things you can do to keep your system safe:

• Keep the area around the furnace clean and free of debris.
• Store flammable materials at least 15 feet away from the unit.
• Know where the gas shutoff valve is located and keep it accessible.
• Check the furnace filter every month and replace it when it's dirty to prevent overheating and damage to your system.
• Post the phone number for the gas company near the furnace, and store it in your cell phone.
• Call for help immediately if you smell gas.

Protect yourself from carbon monoxide
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a potentially deadly gas that is colorless and odorless. A by-product of the combustion process, CO is sent outdoors through the furnace's venting system. While an annual tune-up is the best defense against CO poisoning, you should also:

• Install CO detectors on every floor in your home, including one in close proximity to the main sleeping area.
• Test CO detectors twice a year and replace the batteries at least once a year.
• Know the symptoms of CO poisoning, which include headache, dizziness and nausea. If you suspect carbon monoxide, move to fresh air immediately and call 9-1-1.

For more tips on gas furnace safety, or to schedule preventive maintenance with one of our highly qualified HVAC professionals, please contact Tri-County Heating & Cooling. We've served Butler County and Greater Cincinnati with outstanding service since 1969. 

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