Heat Your Home Safely for the Holidays

Maintaining your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system this winter is one of your best defenses against fire, carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning, and poor indoor air quality (IAQ) here in Southeast Arizona. 

At Hamstra Heating & Cooling, we recommend scheduling maintenance before the heating season begins, but value equipment checkups no matter what time of year. We believe one of the best ways to stay on top of annual HVAC maintenance is through a maintenance plan.

Choose a Service Plan

Our Choice Service Club memberships offer multi-point inspections and other perks. That includes discounts on repairs, priority service response, and condensate line cleaning. 

Whether you call for a one-time basic inspection or buy into Choice Service Club, you will gain peace of mind knowing your equipment will work efficiently and safely throughout the heating season in your Oro Valley home. 

When Your System Needs Repair

Remaining vigilant about odors, odd sounds, short and frequent cycling, cold air, and water accumulation around the base of your furnace contributes to your safety. If you notice a red flag, call us at Hamstra Heating & Cooling for a diagnosis and repairs. 

According to the U.S. Fire Administration, heating fires represented the second leading cause of home fires in 2021. More heating fires happen from 6-8 p.m. than any other time, and the busiest month for fires is January.

You can contribute to your safety in Oro Valley by following these tips: 

Alarms and Extinguishers

• The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends installing smoke alarms in all sleeping areas and just outside those rooms. Every level should have a smoke detector. 
• Consider placing fire extinguishers in the kitchen, garage, attic, basement, laundry area, and any room with a fireplace. 
• Install carbon monoxide detectors near all sleeping areas and on every level of your home. 

Fireplace Safety

• Extinguish the fire when you leave your home or go to bed. 
• Stop sparks by placing glass doors or a metal screen. 
• Burn only dry, seasoned hardwood. Start the fire with dry kindling or fire starters made for indoor fireplaces. Never burn chemically treated or wet wood. Avoid burning evergreens because they can coat your chimney with creosote. 
• Keep garbage, including paper, fabric, and charcoal, out of the blaze. Never use lighter fluid on your fire. 
• Maintain your chimney annually to remove creosote and confirm the flue is in good condition. 

Give Them Space

• Move flammable items away from your heating system and water heater. Avoid storing furniture, boxes, cleaning products, and other chemicals near them. The NFPS recommends three feet of space around your HVAC equipment. 
• Do not forget about your outdoor equipment. Cut back shrubs and trees that might crowd your heat pump. On those rare occasions it snows here in Oro Valley, brush it off your heat pump. 

Portable Heaters

• Follow the instruction manual. Most manufacturers suggest you place your portable heater on a flat surface, such as the floor. 
• Plug your heater directly into an electrical outlet. Avoid using an extension cord or power strip. 
• Maintain a three-foot clearance from furniture and other items. 
• Turn portable heaters off when you go to sleep or leave the room. Keep your heater in view while using it. 

If You Lose Power

• Your gas stovetop may work and enable you to cook a hot meal. Never use it to heat your home. 
• Leave kerosene and propane camp lanterns and stoves outdoors. If you buy a fuel-powered heater, be sure it is safe for indoor use, and follow manufacturer directions. 
• Close doors to unused rooms and bring the family together in one area. 

Make Safety a Priority

Get your heating equipment off to a safe start this heating season. Ask our experts at Hamstra Heating & Cooling to tune up and inspect your heat pump or furnace. We want you to be comfortable and safe in your Oro Valley, AZ, home. Call us at 520.629.9833 or request service online.