LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — Temperatures are cooling down, so it’s time to turn the heater on. But experts warn, the first time you turn it on there are a couple safety precautions to keep an eye on.
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According to Las Vegas Fire and Rescue, dust accumulates during the summer months when a furnace isn't being used.
That dust can cause a burning smell and maybe a light white haze when turned on for the first time. This is normal and will go away. If there is dense smoke and the furnace makes noise, leave the building and call 911.
Maintenance should be done every two years by a professional to make sure everything is operating properly.
Ryan Emling is a field supervisor for Air Supply and said there are other steps homeowners should take between check ups.
“People usually forget to check their filters. There are many times I go to a house and I’ll ask the homeowner when was the last time they changed their filter, and they’ll tell me six months... We recommend every 30 to 90 days to get that changed out,” said Emling.
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Emling said April is the best time to get air conditioning units checked and October is the best time to get heaters checked.
He also said to make sure smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 400 Americans die every year from unintentional carbon monoxide poising not related to fires.
