If you just purchased a home where heating oil is used to warm the interior of your house, and you have not had the pleasure of using this heating source in the past, you will soon find the efficiency it provides in warming the temperature of your living space is better than other heating options. There are a few safety precautions you should put into play to keep those in your family safe when using home heating oil. Here are some tips to consider to minimize the risk of injury or illness.
Be Aware Of Carbon Monoxide Symptoms
Heating oil is relatively safe as it will not ignite unless it reaches a high temperature which causes it to vaporize. It is contained in a tank on your property, keeping it safely stored until it is used. It is however important to be aware of the signs of a carbon monoxide condition. If heating oil leaks into the home, people will be at risk for sickness as a result. Carbon monoxide is odorless, making it difficult to detect without an electronic device. Install a carbon monoxide detector in your home to alert people of a potential leak. Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include lethargy, nausea, and headaches.
Make Sure To Have Your Burner Serviced Regularly
It is a good idea to have your oil burner checked each year to make sure it is working up to par. A heating service will send a professional to your home to do an evaluation of your heating apparatus and will do a complete cleaning procedure to ensure the burner is free of debris. The burner will be checked over for flaws and any repair work needed will be done to ensure there is no lapse in heating of the home. This will increase your safety when using heating oil as well as ensure you are getting the maximum efficiency level to help you reduce heating costs.
Keep Items Away From Your Burner To Minimize Fire Risk
Make it a rule to keep children several feet away from your heating device so they are not at risk of any type of burn injury. It is also a wise idea to remove household items within the vicinity of the burner as well. This will ensure there is no risk of something becoming heated up from excessive temperatures, causing a potential fire or melting of the item. Make the burner area off-limits to both people and belongings for maximum safety.
