Look for These 7 Safety Features in Your Next Furnace

When it’s cold outside, you can always count on being nice and cozy inside your home. That comfort is thanks to your home furnace. While this vital piece of equipment is key to keeping your home warm despite the outside temperatures, it also poses some safety risks.

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Fortunately, many modern units include various furnace safety features to keep you and your family safe.

Furnace Safety Risks

A furnace is a heating system that pulls in the air from your home, heats it and then distributes it back into your house through ducts. These units are powered by natural gas, propane, oil, electricity, wood or coal. It’s typically the heating component of an HVAC unit.

While very efficient, furnaces also pose several safety risks, such as:

• Fire hazards

• Carbon monoxide poisoning

• Gas leaks

• Explosions

Furnace Safety Features to Look For

Today’s HVAC manufacturers typically include a range of built-in furnace safety features that protect homeowners. However, no two furnace models are the same, and brands offer various benefits. It’s important to compare your options when shopping for a new furnace.

Here’s a look at some of the top electric or gas furnace safety devices and features you must have when buying a modern unit.

1. High-Temperature Limit Control

The limit control switch works similarly to a thermometer: It tracks the temperature in and around the furnace. If this temperature exceeds what it considers acceptable, it automatically shuts off the furnace. This furnace safety switch can prevent a fire.

2. Flame Rollout Sensor

The fire used to heat the air should remain safely in the firebox. However, if there isn't enough oxygen in the box, it may try to stray outside this parameter, which poses a fire risk. The flame rollout sensor detects this issue and shuts down the unit immediately.

3. Flame-Proving Sensor

The flame-proving sensor makes sure your unit always has a flame burning. If this sensor doesn’t detect a flame or the temperature goes too low, it will shut the furnace down.

4. Air Pressure Switch

The air pressure switch ensures the draft inducer is working properly. It makes sure the airflow in the unit is good before it ignites. If any problems are detected, your furnace won’t turn on. This furnace safety feature reduces the risk of fire and damage to your unit.

5. Sealed Combustion Units

Many modern units use the sealed combustion feature. Rather than pulling air from inside your home like many older furnaces do, these newer models pull air from outside. This safer option minimizes the risk of carbon monoxide exposure and backdraft to ensure safe combustion.

6. Dual Heat Exchangers

Dual heat exchangers are quite common on modern furnaces. This feature can significantly improve the efficiency of the unit while simultaneously reducing the risk of carbon monoxide leaks.

7. Carbon Monoxide Detector

Some of today’s furnaces include integration with home carbon monoxide monitors. If the unit you’re considering doesn’t include this type of integration, be sure to purchase a separate carbon monoxide detector to place near your furnace. Your HVAC professional can help you find the right model for your home.

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What to Do If Your Furnace Shuts Down or an Alarm Goes Off

Many of these safety features' main purpose is to sound an alarm or shut the furnace off to prevent a dangerous situation. In many cases, this requires action.

If your carbon monoxide detector alarm goes off, you and your family must evacuate your home immediately. Keeping the door open can prevent gas buildup inside your home. Move a safe distance from your house and contact 911 right away. The operator will walk you through the next steps.

If your furnace has shut down, it’s time to contact a professional plumber. There are several reasons your furnace may automatically turn off. Unless you have the right skills and experience, it’s recommended to call a plumber rather than try to fix the problem yourself. This step can ensure you and your family’s safety.

Working with a professional plumber can ensure you find the perfect furnace for your home that includes all the right furnace safety features.