The holiday season in Ohio is a magical experience. Snowfall on the ground, and homes filled with laughter and loved ones. Whether you’re busy Christmas shopping, baking, or putting up seasonal decorations – they all contribute to the whimsical ambiance of the season. However, amidst the merriment, it is crucial not to overlook the importance of safety measures for your HVAC system. With numerous items and decorations adorning our homes, it is easy to become preoccupied and neglect the impact they can have on the functionality of our HVAC system. For this reason, your Lebanon Heating & Cooling experts are here to remind you about the significance of taking simple precautions to ensure a cozy and secure holiday season for you and your loved ones.
1. DO YOU HAVE FLAMMABLE ITEMS NEAR HEATING SOURCES?
When decorating for Christmas, it is essential to consider the flammability of certain items. We advise you to exercise caution and ensure that objects like paper decorations, wrapped packages, and blankets are kept away from heat sources, such as fireplaces or candles. As these elements are commonly used during this time of the year, it is crucial to prevent any fire hazards. Additionally, if these heating elements are utilized, it is important to properly extinguish them before leaving the house or retiring for the night.
2. DO YOU HAVE ITEMS OBSTRUCTING YOUR THERMOSTAT?
When decorating your home for the festivities, it is important to be mindful of the placement of decorations, particularly around your thermostat. It is crucial to avoid covering or obstructing the thermostat as it may lead to inaccurate temperature readings. This will ultimately lead to miscommunication with the furnace, and it can impact the distribution of heat throughout your house. None of which we recommend.
3. DO YOU HAVE ITEMS BLOCKING OFF YOUR VENTS?
Another aspect that requires attention is the HVAC vents. For instance, objects like a Christmas tree are temporarily placed in certain areas solely for seasonal purposes. However, it is crucial to ensure that these vents remain unobstructed, even if it is a temporary arrangement. Blocked vents can adversely affect the airflow and result in various HVAC problems.
4. DO YOU HAVE CLUTTER OR DEBRIS SURROUNDING YOUR CONDENSER?
While your condenser (outdoor unit) is designed to withstand harsh weather conditions and is currently not in use, you should still take precautionary measures during winter. You can do this by periodically checking the area surrounding your condenser and confirming that it remains free from loose debris, such as leaves, twigs, and outdoor items. This is because the combination of snowfall, ice buildup, and loose debris or outdoor items can potentially cause damage to the unit. Since the condenser is not utilized in the winter, any resulting damage may go unnoticed until spring. An additional tip is to utilize a condenser cover to provide added protection for your outdoor unit.
It is important to keep your HVAC system in mind amidst the holiday festivities. By following these simple precautions outlined below, you can ensure a comfortable and safe Christmas with your loved ones. And if you happen to encounter any HVAC issues, rest assured that Lebanon Heating & Cooling is here to provide assistance. Feel free to contact us anytime for emergency services. We are available 24/7, 365 days a year!
You can reach us at (513) 540-1773 or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
