5 Furnace Room Safety Tips Every Homeowner Should Know

Down in the depths of your basement — where daylight barely reaches — sits one of the most frequently overlooked spaces in your home: the furnace room. Though it often might not get much attention, this small area houses some of your home’s most important equipment. If neglected, it may pose potential safety risks. 

At Reliance, we’ve been keeping Canadian families comfortable for over 60 years, and we’ve learned a lot about how to maintain clean, efficient home heating systems. This month, we’re sharing our top tips in five key areas to help keep your furnace room in tip top shape.

Ventilate and Make Space

Your furnace and water heater operate best when they have room to breathe. Whether powered by natural gas, propane, oil, or electricity, these systems require proper airflow for safe operation — and enough clearance for maintenance or repairs. 

✅ Keep the floor and surrounding area clear of clutter and debris.
✅ Move boxes, luggage, or storage bins away from vents and air intakes.
✅ Avoid leaning items against your furnace or water heater.
✅ Dispose of used filters or old furnace parts properly — don’t leave them lying around in your furnace room.

Store Smart — and Store Elsewhere

Your furnace room isn’t a storage closet. Keeping certain items nearby can damage your system or create unpleasant odours throughout your home. 

🚫 Avoid placing kitty litter near your furnace — ammonia fumes can corrode internal components.
🚫 Keep cleaning products and detergents elsewhere, stored securely in airtight containers. 

Prioritize Safety

Furnace rooms and flammable materials should never mix.

🔥  Do not store combustibles such as gasoline, paint, or solvents near your furnace.
👕 If your furnace room doubles as a laundry space, never hang clothing or a clothesline from your equipment. Venting and water lines can be damaged by the weight of things hanging on them. Restricted airflow can also be a serious fire hazard.
🧰 Book regular furnace maintenance to help ensure everything runs at its designed efficiency.

Improve the Lighting

Dim or burnt-out bulbs can make your furnace room hazardous during maintenance or emergencies. 

💡 Replace broken or dim bulbs promptly.
🔦 Keep a flashlight in an easy-to-find spot for quick access during power outages or inspections.

Stay on Top of Maintenance

Regular maintenance may help prevent costly repairs and help ensure you get the useful life out of your furnace. 

🕒 Replace your furnace filter as often as recommended by the manufacturer — you might find it helpful to set reminders on your phone or calendar.
👂 Listen for unusual sounds such as popping or rattling and call for service if you notice anything new and unusual.
🔍 Check for rust spots or leaks — both are signs that professional attention may be needed.
🧭 Schedule annual preventative maintenance with a licensed technician. 

Keeping Your Furnace Room in Shape 

A well-maintained furnace room isn’t just about cleanliness — it’s about efficiency and peace of mind. 

If you notice anything unusual or need a hand with maintenance or repairs, Reliance Home Comfort is ready to help. From furnace repair and maintenance to complete system replacements, we’re here to help keep your home comfortable year-round. 

👉 Learn more in our Ultimate Furnace Guide and discover how to keep your heating system running safely and efficiently.