UGI urges residents to prepare for heating season

With colder weather drawing closer, UGI is urging residents to prepare their homes before they turn on their home heating systems.

Bringing in a qualified service technician can help ensure that their homes and businesses are prepared for a safe and energy efficient heating season, UGI officials said in a press release.

Servicing your system now also reduces the likelihood of needing emergency service in cold weather.

Either a technician or you can check the following items:

• Make sure the pilot light and thermostat are working correctly.
• Check the fuel pipe and heat exchanger for cracks or leaks.
• Test the efficiency of your heating system.
• Clean or replace the filter about every three months. Filters can have a significant impact on your energy costs and the quality of air in your home and may benefit you if you experience fall allergies.
• Ensure the exhaust flue or chimney is clear of obstructions and in good condition.
• Have your chimney inspected for any damage that may have occurred during summer storms. Structural damage to chimneys can cause carbon monoxide to enter your home or lead to a chimney fire.
• Regularly check for holes in the exhaust flue, particularly where the pipe meets the furnace. Small holes can be patched with foil tape, but corroded flues must be replaced.
• Make sure your appliances have proper air flow.  “Seal tight and ventilate right” should be the guiding principle when it comes to sealing air leaks and keeping vents unobstructed.
• If your furnace and the water heater are in an enclosed room or closet, make sure they get plenty of air.
• If you enclosed your furnace or water heater in a small room or closet, ensure your appliances have proper air flow and avoid a dangerous build-up of carbon monoxide.
• Seal air leaks around windows, doors, pipes, recessed lighting, and electrical outlets to reduce your heating bills. Seal door leaks with weather-stripping or a door sweep. Window leaks can be sealed with caulking.
• Ensure that return-air vents in the house allow air to flow.
• Clean and unblock heat registers. Make sure furniture, curtains and blankets are not near or resting on your heat registers.
• Remove all flammable objects from around your furnace and water heater.
• Check to ensure all smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors in your home are working properly and have fresh batteries. Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors should be located on every floor of your home and one should be located within each bedroom.
• Do not overload extension cords, an inspect them for damage or wear.
• Check for rebates, since most UGI natural gas and electric customers can qualify for a number of them associated with the installation of energy-saving measures.

Source: Berkshire mont