With fall temperatures beginning to drop below 45 degrees overnight, it’s time to tune in to your heating system. When the heat is running, are you hearing odd noises from your boiler or furnace? Does it sound a little bit like a freight train squealing, creaking and chugging along? Or, perhaps you’ve even heard a bang when the system starts up (oil heat boilers that are dirty tend to backfire). We’re sorry to have to tell you, but these are not the sounds of a well-operating boiler/furnace.
Regardless of whether your home has oil, natural gas or electric heat, any new or odd noise coming from your heating system is an indication that something is definitely not right. It’s best to call in the service team and get your heating system serviced. You wouldn’t want to find out that the furnace isn’t working and needs to be replaced when it’s below freezing outside!
Your heating system service should include a check of all the thermostats with battery changes if needed. To ensure your heating system’s optimal and reliable performance for many years to come, have it inspected, cleaned and serviced annually every Fall.
Check Your Smoke/Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Fire Prevention Week is October 9-15th, which means it’s the ideal time to check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and replace the batteries. Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless and deadly gas. You should have smoke and CO detectors on every level of your home and especially near sleeping areas. If your smoke and CO detectors are more than 10 years old, it’s time to replace them. Many folks opt for combination smoke and CO detectors.
While we’re on the subject, learn more about fire prevention and a home fire escape plan for everyone in the home – from children to older adults – by visiting the National Fire Protection Association’s website.