Along with promoting peak energy efficiency in the home and the safe operation of heating and cooling systems, it’s imperative that homeowners give home safety the attention it deserves. The risk of electrical, chemical and fire hazards exists in every home. Here’s a home safety inspection checklist you can use to eliminate possible safety hazards, so your family can rest assured home is as safe as possible.
Fire
In the event that an appliance, electronic device or HVAC equipment sparks, you can avoid a fire by keeping storage areas, basements and attics clear of materials that easily ignite, such as old mattresses and furniture, clothing and papers.
Do the same for your yard, as keeping landscaping trimmed back and promptly removing grass clippings and yard debris will prevent them from fueling a fire.
Chemical
The best course of action for preventing chemical hazards involves storing such items in an area outside of the home. If you have a shed or detached garage, store them there, but be sure the space is ventilated. If you must store them inside the home, choose a location that is well ventilated so any fumes are circulated out of the home. Don’t store chemicals near an open flame or source of heat, including any gas appliances such as the furnace or water heater.
Electrical
Check the cords on appliances and electronic devices, and throw them away if the cord is damaged or frayed. Don’t overload electrical outlets with multiple devices.
Maintenance
After following these steps to promote home safety, you’d be remiss if you didn’t also prioritize maintenance for your cooling and heating systems, a necessary step to keeping them safe and in good operating condition. If it’s been awhile since they’ve been maintained, or it’s time to schedule the service this year, contact your local HVAC professional to make an appointment. Ask about annual service plans that save you money and give you access to special discounts and offers.
For more information about home safety, or to schedule maintenance, please contact us at Donald P. Dick Air Conditioning today. We serve homeowners in the greater Fresno area.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in the greater Fresno, California area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about home safety and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
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