Decorating your home for the holidays is one of the joys of the season, but it’s important to do it safely. Improper placement of decorations can block vents, strain your HVAC system, and create fire hazards. Follow these tips to keep your home festive and safe.
Keep Vents Clear
Avoid placing wreaths, garlands, or hanging ornaments over air intake or floor vents. Leave at least 4 to 6 inches of clearance on all sides. Blocked vents force your furnace to work harder, which can raise energy bills and increase the risk of a breakdown. Proper airflow keeps your home comfortable and your HVAC system running efficiently.
Maintain Clearance Around HVAC Units
Keep at least 3 feet of space around your furnace, water heater, or other HVAC equipment. Avoid storing decorations, gifts, or seasonal items nearby, especially anything flammable like artificial greenery, wrapping paper, or fabric decor. Adequate clearance ensures safe operation and prevents fire hazards.
Stay Safe Around Fireplaces
If you use a wood-burning stove or fireplace, keep decorations and trees a safe distance away. Sparks can travel up to 6 feet from the fire, so positioning decor carefully reduces the risk of accidental fires and protects your home.
Protect Your Outdoor Unit
Outdoor HVAC units need space too. Keep lights, inflatables, shrubs, and ornaments at least 3 feet away. Restricted airflow can strain your system, increase energy costs, and lead to unnecessary wear.
Replace Your Air Filter After Decorating
Unpacking holiday boxes releases dust and other airborne particles. Replace your air filter a few days after decorating to maintain good indoor air quality and help your HVAC system perform efficiently.
Keep Detectors Unobstructed
Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors must remain visible and free from decorations. Covering or blocking them can delay detection and put your household at risk.
Complete Your Winter Maintenance
Take the opportunity to ensure your HVAC system has received its seasonal tune-up. Winter maintenance improves efficiency, prevents breakdowns, and keeps your home safe throughout the season.
