Stay Warm and Safe This Winter

With the winter weather we all tend to spend more time in our homes trying to stay warm. While sometimes hiding under the covers and drinking hot tea will do the trick, McKinley Heating Service Experts is here with some tips on how to stay warm (and safe!) this winter. 

Install Carbon Monoxide Detectors 

Make sure you have carbon monoxide (CO) detectors installed on each floor of your home, particularly near bedrooms, and test them to confirm they are working. Since CO is an odorless gas and cannot be detected, it’s crucial that you have operating CO detectors to make sure your home is safe. 

Get Your Chimney Inspection 

This is the perfect time of year to get the fireplace up and running, but before you do, be sure you have your chimney cleaned and examined by an expert. The fireplace may be a source of CO if you don’t have it regularly cleaned and maintained. 

Be Careful with Space Heaters 
 
Space heaters are typically safe, energy efficient, and an effective way to heat small sections of your home, but confirm it has been sanctioned by a recognized testing labouratory and contains an automatic shut-off feature. Observe all manufacturer’s instructions and ensure it is placed on a hard, level surface at least 36 inches away from any flammable items. 

Furnace Tune-Up 

With a furnace tune-up from McKinley Heating Service Experts in Edmonton, we will perform a safety check of your heating equipment to ensure there are no leaks or CO problems. Along with a heating tune-up, make sure your heating vents are free from obstruction and that you’re changing your air filter every 30 days. This will avoid the air flow from becoming restricted and help stop allergens from aggravating respiratory issues. 

 
If You Need Help Staying Warm, Ask 

There are appropriate 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 appliances to heat your home could cause a fire or a dangerous buildup of carbon monoxide. If you need assistance paying your utility bills, visit NeedHelpPayingBills.com to find a service near you. 

To ensure your home is ready to keep you safe and warm all season long, call McKinley Heating Service Experts at 780-800-7092 today, or schedule service online.