Your central heating and a/c system is designed to keep your home and family comfortable with proper maintenance, without using a fireplace or space heater to warm you. If your system is not keeping your warm on these cold days, it is suggested you schedule a check up with Accu-Temp at 512-636-9555. If you are using a space heater or fireplace, please follow these safety tips:
[checklist icon=”fa-check-circle-o” iconcolor=”” circle=”” circlecolor=”” size=”small” class=”” id=””][li_item icon=”fa-check-circle-o”]When using space heaters, it’s important to remember to pull the heating device at least 3 feet away from other furniture or any other combustible items. The space heater should also only be on for a limited time each day and never be connected to an outlet with an extension cord or left unattended or while sleeping.[/li_item][li_item icon=”fa-check-circle-o”]When you’re done using your space heater, make sure to unplug it and let it cool down before storing it away again.[/li_item][li_item icon=”fa-check-circle-o”]If your electric heater has frayed or damaged cords, do not use it.[/li_item][li_item icon=”fa-check-circle-o”]Fireplaces are also prone to fires if not used correctly.[/li_item][li_item icon=”fa-check-circle-o”]Before using the fireplace, be sure the flue is already open. You can check this by looking up the chimney to see if light is peeking in.[/li_item][li_item icon=”fa-check-circle-o”]You should also have your chimney inspected by a professional before heating season and cleaned to remove creosote build up, which is combustible.[/li_item][li_item icon=”fa-check-circle-o”]If you’re using artificial logs for your fire, you should only use one at a time. Never use newspapers or trash in the fire because these burn too hot. You also shouldn’t store any newspapers, kindling, or matches near the fireplace.[/li_item][li_item icon=”fa-check-circle-o”]You should also never leave your fireplace unattended when there’s a fire. You should also use a fireplace screen to prevent sparks from flying.[/li_item][li_item icon=”fa-check-circle-o”]It’s important not to have an exposed rug or wooden floor right in front of the fireplace either.[/li_item][li_item icon=”fa-check-circle-o”]When exposing the ashes wait at least four days so they are completely cold. A metal container with a tight lid works best to store the ashes so they don’t blow through, which can expose them for re-ignition.[/li_item][li_item icon=”fa-check-circle-o”]Never put ashes in a paper or plastic bag or in cardboard.[/li_item][li_item icon=”fa-check-circle-o”]Also do not store ashes on your deck or garage, or any location that allows the heat to transfer to something flammable.[/li_item][li_item icon=”fa-check-circle-o”]Make sure you discard the ashes away from your house but not near dry brush either, which can cause a brush fire.[/li_item][/checklist]