Your Heat Sources and Fire Risk | SERVPRO® of Rockwall/Rowlett

1/14/2025 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Rockwall/Rowlett if you experience any smoke, soot or fire damage.

The temperatures have dipped and we have seen our share of windy and frigid days already this season. There’s no doubt about it—winter has arrived in northern Texas. Now that we are spending more time indoors, most of us have probably turned on our furnaces or utilized our fireplaces.

Since house fires are more common in the winter season, it is important to keep your sources of heat well-maintained and cleaned to avoid starting an accidental fire. We lay out some great ways to reduce your risk of a house fire below, so read on.

Clean Your Furnace

Most homeowners will probably admit that they don’t clean their HVAC systems as often as they should. Even though our furnaces and air conditioning units are used heavily in our homes, they are typically overlooked on a day-to-day basis.

Inspect your furnace regularly to detect any issues or potential malfunctions. The next time we experience a freak snowstorm, you certainly don’t want that to be the time you discover that your furnace isn’t working.

In addition to giving it a good cleaning every season, you should also replace the air filter regularly. Ideally, this task should be done seasonally to provide your home with the best air quality. Every 90 days is a good benchmark to swap it out.

Even though this is a small and easy task, it can extend the lifespan of your HVAC system and can save you money and a potential headache down the road!

Prioritize a Clean Fireplace

If your home has a fireplace, you probably enjoy the warm benefits it can bring a few times a year. Since it may not be used very often, it is even more important that it is cleaned regularly to remove excess dust buildup. During cleaning, it is also a good idea to inspect it for cracks or potential issues.

If you have an artificial fireplace, remove the glass front and wipe down the entire interior of the unit and check to make sure all of the connecting gas or electric lines are in good condition. For wood-burning fireplaces, clearing out excess ash and ensuring the chimney is not blocked can help reduce your risk of starting a house fire.

Portable Heater Safety

If you need a quick blast of warmth, space heaters can be a great resource to have in your home. While they are an efficient source of heat for a single room or small space, they can also be fire hazards. Avoid accidental tipping of the unit by placing it on a level surface, and always plug it into the wall instead of an extension cord.

Children and pets can also increase your house fire risk if you use space heaters. Never leave them in a room unattended, and always unplug your heater before going to bed.

If you experience fire damage this season, give us a call at SERVPRO of Rockwall/Rowlett for immediate assistance. We’re here ²⁴⁄₇ when you need us!