The furnace is the unsung hero of winter, soldiering on to keep us warm and toasty during the most frigid months of the year. However, we give little thought to this essential household item, unless it becomes temperamental or stops working altogether. When your furnace goes out in the dead of winter, do you know what to do? Is it an easy fix? Should you call a professional?
Here’s what you need to know before the temperature dips too low.
Clogged air filter
Your furnace has an air filter that traps dust and debris. When the filter is clogged, your furnace has to work harder. Dirty filters cause short cycling times. The lack of fresh air into your furnace causes the heat exchanger to get too hot, and shut down, which makes it hard for your home to stay warm. A furnace that doesn’t produce enough heat typically is due to an air filter problem. Plus, dirty filters hurt the air quality in your home. If you don’t keep up with air filter replacements, it could lead to a costly expense—that of a cracked heat exchanger. To prevent issues, change your filters regularly as part of your seasonal maintenance. For paper filters, change them every 3-6 months. For fiberglass filters, change them every 2 months.
The quick fix:Change your air filter. You can tell that it’s time to do so if you hold it up to the light, and no light shines through. Make sure to insert the new filter correctly. Air filters are made to trap debris blown from one direction. Installing a filter upside-down can limit its effectiveness.
When to call a professional:If you have electrostatic filters, they can last for years if cleaned regularly. Ask your furnace professional how to change these filters. Finally, if you do have a cracked heat exchanger, that requires a professional.
Blower issues
Furnaces that are not blowing air or those that are continually blowing air are both a problem. If your furnace is not blowing air, it could be clogged. Or it’s possible that the access door to the furnace door is off or unhinged. The safety switch on the door prevents the fan and burner from coming on unless the door is shut. Alternately, if the blower continually runs, the heat rises, which means the limit switch isn’t doing its job. It’s supposed to shut down the blower when the temperature inside the furnace becomes dangerously hot. A bad limit switch will significantly shorten the lifespan of your furnace blower.
The quick fix: For furnaces that are not blowing air, you can clean your blower fan. This requires removing the blower from the furnace. Call a technician if you haven’t done this before or if the red light is flashing on your unit, signaling a problem.
When to call a professional: A bad limit switch needs to be replaced. This has to be done by a professional.
Malfunctioning thermostat
The thermostat is the control center of your home heating system. When it’s not working properly, your furnace won’t function at its best either. It could be cycling on and off more than usual or fail to produce enough heat. The fan could be running constantly. This drains the battery and causes your furnace to work inefficiently.
The quick fix: For electronic thermostats, try replacing your thermostat’s batteries. For manual thermostats, take off the thermostat cover and dust the inside with a small brush. Look for a tripped circuit breaker and reset it, or a blown fuse and replace it. Set the fan on auto and see if your furnace runs constantly through all heat settings.
When to call a professional: If your wires are connected but the thermostat isn’t working properly, call an expert. He/she will be able to test the wires individually to determine which is faulty.
Pilot light/electric ignition
Your gas furnace has a pilot light, which ignites the natural gas pumped into the main burner. Your electric furnace has an electric ignition, which performs a similar function. If these are not working properly, you could have problems getting heat. A gas pilot light should be blue; that indicates it’s burning properly with enough oxygen. If it’s flickering yellow, that could be a sign of excess carbon monoxide or dirt built up on the intake valve, preventing oxygen from feeding the flame.
The quick fix:If it’s a gas pilot and it’s simply gone out, try relighting. It. If it’s an electric ignition, check to make sure it’s not a tripped breaker causing the problem. You can also try turning off your furnace’s supply of power, wait for 10 minutes, and turn it back on.
When to call a professional:If you relight the gas pilot and it keeps going out, call a professional. If the pilot is yellow or orange, that also warrants a professional look. It could be caused by an old igniter or a faulty temperature limiting switch.
Rumbling, squeaking, and rattling noises
If your furnace is making noises, chances are something is wrong. A high-pitched squeal could be a frayed or slipped blower belt, which helps your furnace fan run. Worn-out ball bearings could cause a scraping sound. If your furnace makes a loud sound when you start it up, that could mean there’s oil buildup in the chamber and it’s ignited all at once. Rattling could be caused by a loose duct. Whistling could be caused by a clogged air filter.
The quick fix: If you hear whistling, try replacing the air filter. If your furnace is rattling or vibrating, make sure loose ducts are screwed down properly. You can also try to add some pads under the furnace to level it.
When to call a professional:If you hear a scraping sound, turn the furnace off immediately and call a professional. Do the same if there’s a loud sound upon starting up the furnace. It’s a good idea to get sounds checked out to prevent future problems and potentially dangerous situations.
Leaking water
Standard furnaces don’t produce water but high-efficiency models do. There are several causes for a furnace leaking water, including a clogged condensation tube or drain hose. Loose connections, cracks, and holes can also cause water to leak. Condensate pumps typically last for 3-5 years; they can also start malfunctioning after that time.
The quick fix: Turn off the system either by the switch on the unit or the breaker. Clean up the water from around the base. You can use a wet-dry vacuum if needed to unclog the condensate drain line.
When to call a professional:You will need a professional to replace your condensate pump and any other parts.
Safety first
Keep in mind that do-it-yourself furnace repair does present some potential safety issues, from fire and other winter home hazards to carbon monoxide poisoning. Small repairs done improperly can lead to bigger issues, and you might void the warranty on the appliance if you accidentally cause a larger problem. Unless you received training in furnace repair, limit your fixes to the simple ones. Leave any mechanical repairs to the professionals.
Homeowner’s insurance covers repairs or replacement of furnaces if they are damaged by a covered condition on your policy, such as water damage from a burst pipe. Check with your policy provider to find out more.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
Winter is here and while some renters may not be responsible for every task- like snow or ice removal- this season, there are still important steps you need to take as a tenant to make sure your home or apartment is ready for the cold months ahead.
1. Know your responsibilities. Before the cool weather hits, schedule a meeting with your landlord or property manager to see what your responsibilities will be for the winter and what will be taken care of by the property owner. In an apartment, some winter responsibilities, like laying down salt, plowing driveways, heating and cooling tune-ups, etc. are taken care of by the complex. But if you are renting a home, you will need to check for clarification– with your landlord or take a look at your lease agreement- on whose responsibility it will be to make sure your home gets properly winterized.
2. Test out the heat. It’s better to know early on if there are any problems, so run the heat for a bit even if it’s not yet cold enough. Be on the lookout for odd smells when the heat is on. Take note of any issues, such as inconsistent heat throughout your apartment or house. You can ask your landlord about scheduling regular inspections of your HVAC system, chimney or fireplace. Regular maintenance of your appliances helps keep everything in good working order. Remember to check the batteries in your digital thermostat if it has them. Also test your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. You may need to replace batteries on your own, but you could always ask your landlord for a reimbursement on your purchase.
Pro Tip: Turn your ceiling fans on low in reverse (clockwise when looking up) to circulate warm air and help save on heating costs.
3. Clean inside and out. Just as you might do spring cleaning, it’s time to clean for winter. Vacuum the vents and change out the filters in your HVAC system to improve air quality. Remove dust and dirt from fans, radiators, heat registers. Sweep under appliances. Clean the drains in your sinks, bathtubs, showers, and dishwashers. While you’re at it, check for any signs of dripping that could signal a problem, and alert your landlord immediately. Clean your garbage disposal. If you’re renting a home, clear any debris in your yard. Remove wet leaves from gutters – or alert your landlord. If they remain, water can back up, causing leaks and ice dams and ultimately damaging your home’s roof and siding.
4. Check for drafts. As a renter, you’re responsible for paying utilities. Make sure you’re not losing heat this winter to cracks or openings near windows or doors. Weatherstripping is the most likely to be landlord-approved, but you also could caulk to fill in these areas if allowed. Speak to your landlord about what is approved and what has been done in the past. And don’t forget to cover or remove your window air conditioners to prevent additional drafts.
5. Protect your water lines. If you’re in a house, disconnect and drain garden hoses, turn off the sprinkler system, and cover outside faucets with insulating foam covers (your landlord may have these from previous winters, so check with them before purchasing any). If the temperature drops below 20 degrees, keep one or more faucets running slowly to keep the line from freezing. Open up cabinet doors where pipes are located to allow warm air to circulate and warm the pipes. Always know where your water main is located in case you have to shut it off. Call your landlord if you suspect a pipe has frozen or broken. He/she may direct you to point a space heater at the frozen pipe or call a repairman to take a look.
Pro Tip: If you go on vacation this winter- even if it’s just for a few days, don’t turn the heat completely off. Leave it at least 55 degrees to prevent any problems with frozen pipes.
6. Prepare for snow and ice removal. Generally, apartment complexes and landlords are responsible for snow and ice removal in public areas, but you may need to clear these potential hazards on your own if you are renting a home. Know the state laws for snow removal and your landlord’s policies. Consider buying a snow shovel and some salt/ice melt if you don’t have it. Some communities prohibit the use of salt so you can use synthetic ice melt or cat litter. Talk to your landlord immediately if your notice any damage from snow or ice.
7. Have an emergency plan. Extremely low temperatures are dangerous and can even be life-threatening, especially coupled with snow and ice. Sign up for severe weather alerts with your town or county and have a disaster plan in place, along with an emergency kit fully stocked with food and water. Notify your landlord of any issues as soon as possible before they spiral out of control. And know the emergency contact number to call or text if the heat or power goes out.
8. Protect your home. Starting at around $10 a month, renter’s insurance is an affordable option and a necessity for renters. Your landlord’s coverage will not cover your personal items. Being well prepared is your best defense against unwanted surprises this winter. And at such a low cost, this coverage will pay for itself.
Pro Tip: Bundle your renter’s policy with a California Casualty auto policy and you may qualify for discounts on your premiums! Speak to an agent today to see how much you can save.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
When the temperatures dip low, wind speeds hit high, and precipitation is in the forecast, you could be in the path of a winter storm. These powerful acts of nature have the potential to cut off power and trap you and your family in your home for days, and that’s not all… Winter storms have also been associated with hypothermia, frostbite, carbon monoxide poisoning, and even heart attacks.
Being well prepared is your best defense. Follow this guide so you can weather winter storms safely.
Know what to expect when
The National Weather Service issues severe weather alerts for winter storms. While the exact amounts of snow vary based on where you live, here are some general definitions.
Winter storm watch – Conditions are right for hazardous winter weather within 48 hours. It doesn’t mean it will occur, but a winter storm is possible.
Winter storm advisory – Usually issued within 36 hours of an expected storm, an advisory lets you know to anticipate snow, sleet and/or freezing rain.
Winter storm warning – Expect snow, sleet, ice, freezing rain and/or hazardous winter conditions within the next 12-24 hours.
Get ready
Your primary concerns during a severe winter storm are the loss of heat, power, and communications, having enough food and supplies, and protecting your home from possible storm damage. Stock up on supplies, take protective measures for your home and create a disaster plan to share with everyone in the family. That may include planning for evacuation if needed.
Stock up and charge up- Building your emergency kit.
Stock up on food that requires no cooking or refrigeration. Make sure you have a manual can opener if you’re planning to open cans.
Include baby food and diapers if needed.
Buy cases of bottled water to use in case the pipes freeze. You can use this for brushing teeth, flushing toilets, and bathing. Make sure you have at least 3 gallons of water per person.You can also fill the bathtub with water as an extra source.
Make sure you have enough prescription medications, and any toiletries needed.
If you have pets, stock up on food for them.
Gather your flashlights and extra batteries. Collect candles and matches.
Pull out the battery-powered radio for weather updates. You can also use it to play music to pass the time.
Make sure you have lots of blankets and warm clothes for each member of the household.
Charge all of your devices ahead of the storm. Charge any portable battery backups. Determine how you will charge your phone during a power outage.
Make sure your home’s furnace is in good working order.
Check for drafts and use these winter window hacks to keep your home warm and toasty.
Know how to turn off your utilities, such as gas lines or water, in an emergency.
Consider buying emergency heating equipment such as a wood or coal-burning stove or electric or kerosene heater. Review all safety precautions, and be careful of fire hazards when storing fuel.
Consider installing a portable generator. Review generator safety and never run a generator in an enclosed space.
Make sure your smoke detector and carbon monoxide detectors are working. If you’ll be using your fireplace or wood stove for heat, they should be near that area. Have a fire extinguisher nearby just in case, or try this way to put out fires without an extinguisher.
Test your snow blower and have it serviced if necessary.
Take a walk around your house and identify any trees that could fall. If there’s time, trim them back.
Be prepared to leave if needed
Service your vehicle and make sure you’re prepared for winter. Have a mechanic check your antifreeze, windshield-washer fluid, defroster, wipers, battery, brakes, and tires.
Research local shelters and warming stations in your area in case you need to evacuate your home.
Prepack a bag for each member of the family, including pets.
Once the Storm Arrives
During the storm…
Limit your time outside. Hypothermia and frostbite are real dangers.
Do not attempt to travel during treacherous conditions. You could find yourself in an accident or stranded on the road.
Stay tuned to emergency weather alerts.
Check on neighbors if they’re older or have young children who are more at risk in extreme cold.
After the storm…
Avoid driving until conditions have improved. Follow winter driving safety guidelines.
Keep a supply of kitty litter and/or ice melt to clear sidewalks.
Be careful to not overexert yourself.It’s common for heart attacks to be brought on by overexertion from shoveling or clearing snow.
Assess any damage to your home or property and alert your insurance company. You have home insurance for a reason. Put it to work if you need it.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
Nearly 60% of Americans are underinsured or don’t understand what is covered by their policies.
Make sure you are properly covered going into the new year with these 6 New Year’s insurance resolutions
1. Make sure you have the correct amount of auto coverage
Have your driving habits changed in the past year? Maybe you accepted a new job and your commute is longer or smaller, or you added a new driver to your policy. These life changes will all affect your insurance coverage and premium costs.
Making sure you have the right amount of auto coverage is crucial in case of an accident, so you don’t have to end up paying the majority of your costs out of pocket. For example, make sure you have enough liability coverage on your current policy. If you cause an accident, you are responsible for damages (and if it is a serious accident loss of wages of the victim/their family). Liability coverage is used to pay for those damages that you caused.
Your insurance will only pay for the amount that you’ve designated for liability. The rest comes from your pocket, so don’t skimp on this important coverage.
2. See if you qualify for any additional discounts
Did you know that if you have a teen driver they can take a driver’s safety or education course to qualify for discounts on your auto insurance? You can also turn in their report card for a ‘good student discount’.
You may qualify for insurance discounts for being part of a professional association, such as groups for teachers, nurses, or first responders. There are also discounts for being retired, for drivers turning 25, for paying via automatic bank payments, and for paying in full upfront. You may qualify for a new home discount, or a discount if you have updated your utilities (electrical, plumbing, heating, cooling) in an older home, or added a security system. There are also discounts for a new roof and an automatic sprinkler system. You can even be rewarded for being a loyal customer!
3. Create a home inventory checklist
A home inventory is a list of all of your possessions and their values. While creating one may sound like a waste of time, it’s important to have an updated list of all of your possessions so that you can get fully compensated if there was a disaster like a fire or a tornado, or a burglary. Without a home inventory, you may have difficulty pinpointing all of your belongings and lose out on their value and it can even delay the claims process. Start fresh with all of your new belongings after the holidays and put the checklist in a safe space, in the event of an unexpected loss, you’ll be glad you did.
4. Do you need additional coverage?
Did you know your home and/or renter’s insurance doesn’t include flood coverage? If you live in a flood-prone area you need to have Flood Insurance. The same goes for Earthquakes and Earthquake Insurance.
Do you have a pet that you love like a child of your own? While they will be covered if you are both in an accident in a covered vehicle thanks to Pet Injury Protection from California Casualty, make sure you will get reimbursed for any emergency surgeries, x-rays, labs, prescriptions, and more by adding Pet Insurance.
Umbrella Insurance is an extra layer of coverage that protects you and your family by covering additional damage costs that extend beyond the limits of your homeowner’s, auto, or watercraft policies. This additional coverage ensures your personal assets are safe. The primary purpose of this coverage is to protect you if you’re found liable for causing bodily injury to others or damage to their property. It also protects against incidents involving slander, libel, false arrest, and invasion of privacy, as well as any legal defense costs – even if you’re not found liable.
Personal Property Coverage, also referred to as “contents coverage,” is the term insurance companies use to collectively define the things you own inside your home. Scheduled Personal Property Coverage, or rider, is additional coverage for more special and/or expensive items such as jewelry, watches, heirlooms, furs, collectibles, etc. that have values above your personal property coverage limits. Both coverages are invaluable to make sure your personal belongings are covered in the event of a disaster or burglary.
5. Know what benefits are available to you
At California Casualty we offer our insured exclusive benefits like:
Affiliate Group Rates & Generous Discounts
FREE ID Defense Resolution
Summer or Holiday Skip Payment Options
Waived / Reduced Deductible for Collision or Vandalism While Parked on School Property – for Educators
Personal Firearm Coverage & Fallen Hero Benefits – for First Responders
No Charge Personal Property Coverage Up to $500
24 x 7 Towing & Roadside Assistance
$1,000 Free Pet Injury Protection Coverage
And more! Speak to your insurance agent and ask which benefits are available immediately to you.
6. Schedule your annual free policy review
When’s the last time you took a look at your Insurance policy? Chances are if you haven’t had an accident or a loss, it’s probably been a while. And knowing more about your insurance could even save you money on your premiums. That’s why it is recommended to speak to your insurance agent at least once a year for your annual policy review. They will answer all of your questions and make sure you have the correct amount of coverage.
We know understanding your insurance coverage can be confusing, but we’ve got you covered! There is no better time to start getting the most out of your insurance protection than the new year. Call your California Casualty agent today to make sure you are taking advantage of your coverage and benefits all year long.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
When the temperature drops, there’s nothing more comforting than a warm, cozy home. But cranking the thermostat comes with big bills. Try these winter window hacks – and some more traditional solutions — to save on your energy bills while keeping your house warm and toasty this season.
1. Insulate your windows with plastic wrap or bubble wrap.
Did you know that you can create a barrier around drafty windows using bubble wrap? Choose medium to large size bubbles and cut the wrap to fit to the outer edges of your window. Fill a spray bottle with water. Spray the window with a thin film and immediately place the wrap bubble side down and press it against the windowpane. The water will make it stick. You also can use clear plastic cling wrap instead of the bubble wrap with a similar effect. Keep the wrap there all winter and remove it in the spring. You can even reuse it; just label it for the window that it fits.
Store-bought version: If you prefer, you can buy an inexpensive window insulation kit at hardware or retail stores, or online. They come with a clear shrink wrap film that you cut to size. Then, you apply adhesive around the window frame and use a hairdryer to seal it to the tape. While it holds well during the winter, the plastic peels off easily at the end of the season.
2. Replace caulk and weatherstripping.
Caulk and weatherstripping can wear out over time. Sealing air ducts with caulk and weatherstripping is an easy DIY project that can save you 10-20% of your energy costs, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. The acrylic latex caulks are the easiest to apply and often the least expensive. Choose the type of weatherstripping based on your windows. Lowes offers guidelines that range from vinyl, aluminum, and stainless steel to felt and foam.
3. Choose insulating window shades and curtains.
What you put on your windows does make a difference. Choose insulated window shades such as cellular shades, which have a honeycombed design to trap air. This can save you 10% in heating costs. If you prefer curtains, choose thick medium-colored drapes. You can find blackout or ones with white plastic backings, which can act as insulation. Flannel and fleece curtains also add a layer of insulation. You can check energy ratings for various types of window coverings with the AERC, an independent public-interest nonprofit organization.
Tip: Open curtains on a sunny day during the winter months, and let the sun heat your home. Don’t forget to close the curtains at night or the opposite effect will occur.
4. Install storm windows.
You may not be ready for the expense of replacing your windows, and storm windows may be the next best thing. These windows are mounted inside or outside of an existing window pane. This extra layer helps provide additional insulation (and as a bonus helps to reduce noise). Not all windows will be able to fit storm windows, so check first before you make the investment. When you’re ready, choose low-emissivity (Low-E) storm windows, which have a microscopically thin coating that reflects heat back into the house. These windows can save 12% to 33% of heating costs, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.
5. Other Expert Tips to Try This Winter:
Get a programmable thermostat. Set it lower at night and when you’re away from the house at work.
Keep your heating vents open. It’s a myth that closing vents will save you money. Your heating system generates the same amount of heat whether they are open or closed.
Make sure your vents are not obstructed. Move curtains, rugs, furniture that are blocking airflow.
Consider a duct booster fan to increase the flow of warm air.
Keep interior doors open so airflow can circulate.
If you have a radiator, use some aluminum foil behind it to reflect the heat into the room rather than into the wall.
If you can see light under the bottom of your front door, cold air is coming through. You can often raise the height of your threshold by turning screws—or you can buy a new one.
Run your ceiling fan in reverse so it is moving clockwise to pull warm air down.
Some simple winter home maintenance can help you save on your energy bill and prevent winter home hazards. Remember to schedule a furnace checkup with a professional HVAC company, change your air filters, and check your insulation. Your home is your greatest investment; take care of it and you will enjoy it for years to come.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
It’s cold out there—a good time to crank up the heat or put a few logs on the fire. While you might enjoy the warmth and ambiance, winter is actually one of the worst seasons for indoor air quality. That’s because we’re nestled inside our comfortable homes along with all of the pollutants and moisture. Fun, right?
Our chances of catching a cold are greater during the winter, especially if our home’s air quality is poor. In addition, trapped pollutants increase our risk of asthma and other respiratory problems. The good news is that we can do something about it! According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), there are 3 basic strategies for better indoor air quality: (1) controlling sources of pollutants (2) improving ventilation, and (3) cleaning the air. Here’s what you need to know to improve your indoor air quality this winter.
Source Control
There are many sources of indoor pollution, ranging from fuel-burning appliances to building materials and furnishings, and even household cleaning products. Take a look around your house to identify the sources of poor indoor air quality, so that you can take steps to reduce their impact.
Airborne chemicals
Also known as VOCS – volatile organic compounds – these “hang” in the air for us to breathe. Scented air fresheners, cleaning products, paint, and even carpets and furniture release chemicals in the air. VOCs can cause health problems from respiratory illnesses to headaches, dizziness, irritation in the eyes, ears, nose, and throat, and more. You can choose low VOC paint, or repurposed/upcycled furniture to reduce some chemicals, and use natural cleaning products.
Tip: A bowl of vinegar with lemon juice will draw out bad smells. Baking soda and lemon juice also absorb odors.
Carbon dioxide
During the winter months, we’re gathered together indoors, which means we’re breathing in close proximity to each other. As carbon dioxide levels rise, that can cause headaches, drowsiness, and other problems. If the levels get high enough, it can even impact decision-making. Limit candle lighting and fireplace use which can contribute to carbon dioxide levels. Open a window for a few minutes, even if it’s cold, to let the fresh air in.
Tip: Add plants like red-edged dracaena, weeping figs or bamboo palm to help convert CO2 to oxygen.
Radon gas
When our doors and windows are shut, it’s easy for radon gas to build up. Radon gas comes from the natural decay of soil. It moves into your home through cracks or even through your water supply. While it may be natural, radon is radioactive and dangerous. It’s the number one cause of lung cancer among nonsmokers. A radon test kit can measure your home’s levels. The EPA offers guidance on radon reduction systems.
Air that is too dry – or too moist – can cause problems. The dry air in winter causes dry skin, chapped lips, dry nose, dry throat, and cracked fingertips. High humidity causes mold and condensation which also can affect our health. The ideal level for household humidity should be between 30% and 59%. You can buy an inexpensive monitor to track your household humidity. To help reduce it, use your exhaust and ventilation fans, take cooler showers, or consider a dehumidifier. UV lamps professionally installed in your HVAC system can help kill harmful bacteria and mold before they enter the air supply.
Tip: Run your air conditioner. It may be winter, but your air conditioner can help clear humidity from your home.
The seasonal scent of wood-burning fireplaces may be wonderful, but that smoke is adding fine particles of dust, dirt, and liquids to the air. Choose clean-burning logs to reduce the effects, and never use wood that is wet, painted, or treated. Gas fireplaces that are vented to the outdoors are better for air quality.
Tip: Warm your chimney flue before starting the fire to help it draw smoke upwards and out of your home.
Dust and dirt
Dust and dirt are respiratory irritants and frequent cleaning can help. Dust and clean your home regularly. Take cushions and rugs outside and beat them to loosen and get rid of dirt. Then wipe them clean with a damp rag to pick up any additional particles and mites. Vacuum rugs and carpets using a vacuum cleaner with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter.
Tip: A bristle top doormat helps to trap dirt before it comes into your home. Wash or vacuum your mats regularly to prevent buildup.
Pets
We love our pets but pet hair and dander can affect indoor air quality, especially for those of us who are sensitive or allergic. Air filters and ventilation can help. (See next sections.) Brush your pet regularly to reduce the amount of shedding. Keep a towel by the door and wipe their feet to prevent them from bringing additional dirt into the house.
Tip: Use a window squeegee on your carpet to pick up pet hair. The rubber will loosen the hair and gather it into clumps.
Improved Ventilation
Your HVAC system is your home’s first line of defense against airborne particles. Make sure your system is well maintained and your ducts are cleaned. You also can upgrade the air filters in your HVAC system to a higher MERV rating, if your system allows it. This will increase their ability to remove particles, germs, viruses, and chemical gases. Check with an HVAC professional.
Ventilation devices help air circulation that keeps indoor air clean. They typically are installed in a home’s attic or roof and bring in fresh air on a regular basis while expelling stale air.
Air Cleaners
There are many types of air cleaners for home use, ranging from table-top models to expensive systems for the whole house. An air purifier with a HEPA filter can remove anywhere between 70-95% of airborne particles. Consider buying an air cleaner for each room. Choose one with smart sensors that can detect pollutants in real-time and adjust their fans accordingly.
In addition, you may consider an indoor air quality monitor. These devices can monitor levels of moisture and pollutants, and share information on which part of the house is contributing to poor air quality.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
