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Five Safety Tips for a Safe Heating Season from Owner, Tim Flynn

This time I thought I would share what I am looking for and why I do it. Hi, I’m Tim Flynn and I am the owner of Winter Home Services of Cambridge Massachusetts.

Most people change their motor oil at around 3000 miles. When was the last time you had your gas furnace or boiler inspected and cleaned? Do you have a service agreement? The fact is we rely on the heating system to perform day in and day out.

Tip One: Inspect the chimney. Is it clear? We remove the smoke or exhaust pipe and put a mirror inside, we are looking for daylight! Warning: Don’t do this if you have any reservations all. Always be sure the heating system is off as well!

Most of the older heating systems discharge into a chimney, when was the last time you had your chimney cleaned. Boiler and furnace piping needs to be visually inspected, if your piping looks like rusting or has holes in it, it needs to be replaced immediately! The newer systems discharge outside the house through a wall, like a clothes dryer vent. Be sure there is nothing obstructing or near the vent.

Tip Two: Change the batteries in your smoke and Carbon monoxide detectors. If you do not have a Carbon monoxide detector get one! Install them on every floor and in bedrooms too. Carbon Monoxide is the silent killer!

Tip Three: there are items like circulators that need to be oiled. There are also safety valves that need to be tested. With steam systems the low water cut-off is a must to maintain and make sure it works.

Tip Four: Check for any water stains on the floor and around the heating system. This could indicate a defect, crack or potential leak. Also inspect the piping that leads to the chimney. Be sure the piping has zero white residues on the joints; this would also indicate an issue.

Tip Five: Be proactive! Most of our clients wait till its cold to get there heat going. It’s like knowing the snow is coming and going to the supermarket! We get over run with calls for help! To be in front of an issue and get your heating system inspection or tune-up scheduled today!

Please always hire a professional if you find a condition listed above. We are here to help or advise click here to ask an expert or call us at 617-484-2121.