When you have a new HVAC system at home, it’s important to take precautions to ensure your kids are safe. It may not seem like a big deal to you, but kids are naturally curious. If you’re not careful, this could lead to a dangerous situation.

Here are some HVAC safety tips to follow if you’ve got a house full of kids.

Secure the vents

Make sure your vents are securely nailed or screwed so that children can’t move them. You should also switch from metal to plastic vents to ensure that your kids don’t get injured. Screening floor vents will ensure that children don’t drop small items into them. 

Keep remotes away

Battery-powered remotes for your HVAC system can be dangerous if swallowed by toddlers. Make sure they’re kept in a place that is out of reach of children. 

Block furnace access

The furnace system in a home will usually be in a closet or the basement. The system includes burners, a condensate drain pan, electrical components, and a blower motor. If kids have easy access to this, they could end up cutting or burning themselves. They could also end up damaging the evaporator coil or pull out essential connections. It’s best to keep the room or closet with the furnace system locked at all times.  

Make sure thermostats are out of kids’ reach

The thermostat is essential to maintain the temperature within the house. Make sure children can’t tamper with its settings at all by keeping it out of their reach. You can also use a lock box around it so that children can’t access it. If you have a smart thermostat that can be accessed via an app on your phone, make sure you secure this app. Children today use smartphones at an early age. They shouldn’t end up messing up your thermostat settings. Tampering with it could result in HVAC design damage and increase your energy bills.   

Block access to the condenser outdoors

Outdoor condenser units should be kept blocked from the access of children. This can be done through fencing. Several problems could arise if such units are not blocked. Kids can injure themselves, damage the fins, or drop small items into the fan grille. 

Schedule routine HVAC repair and HVAC service 

Make sure you get a professional to carry out HVAC repair and HVAC service at least once a year so that problems may be diagnosed and fixed. Old systems can also be replaced in time.