Quick Tips for a Season of Safe and Ultra-Comfortable Home Heating

November 28, 2018

With your family’s safety and Ultra-comfort in mind during the cold winter months, we would like to share with you a few tips to keep you safe whether you are snuggled up at home or spending time outdoors!

Detector installation

Did you know that a carbon monoxide (CO) detector is essential for your safety?  As a matter of fact, these detectors work to warn you before becoming poisoned by CO which can help you avoid serious impact to you and your family’s health.  Since CO is colourless and odourless, it is critical that your detector is functional at all times!

• Make sure your batteries are new or that they have been recently installed and are long lasting. A battery tester can be used to measure their strength.

• It is essential that your detector be functional in the event of a power outage. If your detector is electric (and not powered by batteries) have a second detector installed that can function without electricity to enjoy peace of mind.

• If space allows for it, have your detector installed near your furnace.

A smoke detector: your best defense!

Having an operational smoke detector in your home remains a valuable means of protection and even an obligation for homeowners in many provinces. It is therefore imperative that you install a functioning smoke detector in your home, ensuring your safety and that of your loved ones.

• Regularly check that your smoke detector is working properly and that the batteries are new or have been recently changed.

• Install a detector near your furnace and, if possible, have one installed near the bedrooms.

• All smoke detectors must be replaced 10 years after the date of manufacture. The expiry date can be found on the box.

• Remember that a smoke detector can’t act as a carbon monoxide detector and vice versa. Each one has their function!

Keep your heating equipment clutter free

Keep your furnace room clear of clutter at all times. It will be easier to access in case the furnace needs repairs or in case the equipment needs adjusting.

For better maintenance of your equipment, whether inside or outside your home, you can join the protection and maintenance plan offered by Ultramar.

Turning off your heat while away for a few days isn’t such a great idea!

If you think that shutting off your heat while you are away from home will save you money, it’s a risky move. An extended cold spell can cause your plumbing to  freeze which can damage your pipes, even causing them to burst.  Keep your home heated at a reasonable  temperature (around 15 degrees Celsius) to protect your plumbing while you’re away. Don’t chance coming home from vacation to water damage!