Practicing Safety While Using Solid Fuel Heating

Inflation has impacted the price of everything in the United States, and has significantly increased the cost of goods and services. Even the cost of energy, including electricity, gas, fuel, propane, etc. have become more expensive, and as we begin to enter the winter season in Minnesota, people are preparing for the high prices to heat their homes. Due to these rising prices, many insured homeowners may begin to use solid fuel for heating their home, which can come with certain safety issues. If you are interested in using alternative heating sources this winter to try to cut down on costs in Willmar, Minnesota, and interested in how it may impact your insurance costs, MG Insurance Inc. can help. Read on to learn more about practicing safety when using solid fuel heating.

What Is Solid Fuel Heating?

Any type of heater, (fireplace, wood stove, etc.), that utilizes coal, wood, pellets, or other types of organic material as a source of fuel can be considered a solid fuel heating source, and if a solid fuel heating source is installed incorrectly, it can cause serious fire damage, and sometimes even death. These types of heating sources can sometimes cause safety issues and high repair costs because they may have been installed by an insured homeowner without a proper inspection, the insured person may not have notified their agent about the solid fuel heating source, or they may have not properly cleaned or used the solid fuel heating source for a long period of time. In all of these common instances, there is an element of hazardous risk of damage to a home involved and serious injury  if an insured person uses a solid fuel heating source in an attempt to combat rising energy prices. Therefore, it is crucial to take certain safety precautions while utilizing this type of heating source.

Safety Tips For Solid Fuel Heating

If you are thinking about using a solid fuel heating source this winter to help save on energy costs, it is necessary to take some steps to ensure your safety. You should:

• Ensure that your home has smoke and carbon monoxide detectors installed and that they are fully functioning.
• Make sure that you clean the solid fuel heating source and chimney at least once each year, and avoid creosote buildup, which causes more serious fires.
• Be sure that you are using the proper fuel for the solid fuel heating source and store firewood a safe distance away from the appliance.
• Ensure that any heating source venting, including wall pass throughs, connectors, stovepipes, etc. are installed correctly.

If you are planning on using a solid fuel heating source this winter in Willmar, Minnesota, and have questions about safety and insurance coverage, contact MG Insurance Inc. for a consultation.