Ross and Witmer When you’re responsible for a tiny, helpless life, you want to protect him or her from any danger in your home. Childproofing involves many components, one of which involves your HVAC system. Before you hang up your tool belt and check childproofing off your to-do list, address these three HVAC issues in your Pineville, North Carolina home.
Secure Floor Registers
Floor registers can prove attractive for toddlers who want to explore everything at or below eye level. Kids can pick up floor registers, drop toys between the slats, and nick their fingers on the registers’ sharp edges. To childproof these vents, consider securing each one to the floor. You can use regular screws or buy new vent covers that come with fasteners.
You might also install a mesh screen several inches underneath the register. The screen won’t restrict airflow, but it’ll catch any tiny toys that might get dropped through the registers and prevent fingers from slipping between the registers’ edges.
Block Off Radiators
An exposed radiator can become a serious hazard for toddlers. Though most modern radiators aren’t hot enough to burn anybody, the sharp edges can cause injuries. A radiator cover can protect your child and make your home more aesthetically pleasing. Alternatively, consider surrounding the radiator with a baby gate or other obstruction.
You can either buy a radiator cover or make one yourself with simple plywood and paint or stain. The top can become a serviceable table for knickknacks and other decorative items.
Fence in Outdoor Units
If you have an outdoor air conditioning unit, consider fencing it in to keep your child from playing with it, running into it, or dropping items through the fan slats. Give the unit a few feet of space on all sides, and make sure you can remove the fence when we come to service your HVAC system. A gate can serve this purpose well. Alternatively, surround your outdoor AC unit with shrubbery to conceal it — being careful to maintain an 18″ to 36″ distance between the shrubbery and the AC system to prevent airflow issues.
Childproofing your HVAC system can make your home safe for your family’s new addition. To consult with the HVAC experts, call Ross & Witmer at 704-392-6188.