Heating Time Again
- Post By: Greg Crumpton
- Date:
- Category: Blog
Okay, it’s that time of year again. Once you feel the initial chill of fall, you go to your thermostat and you click on the heat.
A properly maintained and functioning HVAC system will be ready to go when you need it. A system that has been neglected may have problems that you are unaware of and it will leave you out in the cold just when you need it most. How have you been maintaining your system?
Regardless of whether your system is heated by natural gas or by electricity provided from the utility, you still need to know it’s there and ready when you need it.
Systems that require electricity to heat are fairly simple by nature, they use electrical resistance heat similar to how a toaster works. Electricity flows through a resistive heater thereby giving off heat into the air stream. Not many components, not many points for failure. If you have power, chances are you will have heat. Even though these systems are relatively simple, they still need to be maintained by professional HVAC company.
HVAC systems that require gas to heat the air need to be maintained with a little bit more safety in mind for the consumer. The byproduct of burning gas in a HVAC system is carbon monoxide; this is a colorless, odorless gas that can be deadly if not contained within the proper components of a heating system. Regular maintenance of the heating components and all of the accessories will ensure that the gas is vented to the proper place, thereby rendering it harmless.
Most commercial office space and all residential properties require the use of a CO2 monitor. This ensures that no noxious gases are leaking into the living spaces of a dwelling. Commonly, local jurisdictions require CO2 monitoring before they will issue a certificate of occupancy for any residents or tenant space within a commercial property.
Every year there are many lives lost to CO2 poisoning. To ensure you are not exposed to this toxic gas, have your heating systems checked by professional technician yearly.
As in most cases, early detection saves money down the line.
Special Note: If you smell natural gas or have a suspicion that you have a natural gas leak please call the gas company immediately for an emergency response.
