If a residence or business uses a natural gas or propane heater, a service professional can perform safety checks for carbon monoxide leaks that could be hazardous if they spread to living spaces. According to TDLR officials, the first step in hiring a contractor should be to check the TDLR website at www.tdlrtexas.gov to ensure they are licensed by the state of Texas.
“Checking whether your contractor is licensed and the technician servicing your equipment is registered with TDLR is an important step in protecting yourself from shoddy and dangerous work,” said William Weatherly, chief of the TDLR Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Program.
According to TDLR, annual fall maintenance of heating systems can also prevent the system from breaking down during the coldest days of the year. Common issues with heating systems that a contractor should look for include strong connections between hoses and wires, correctly operating thermostat systems and proper air flow through units.
Other signs of issues with heating systems include abnormal noises or odors, which can be the result of common problems, such as overused air filters and worn fan belts.
“Licensed contractors and registered technicians have undergone a criminal background check and have had the required training,” Weatherly said. “The licensed contractors have passed a comprehensive exam and complete yearly continuing education classes.”
