Furnace Repair – Centralia’s Winter Saver

Centralia’s residents were at wit’s end. The deadly carbon dioxide and steam produced by the mine fire were seeping into their homes, and there was no end in sight.

Momentum was growing for decisive action. Governor Thornburgh flew into town in a helicopter, which was a publicity stunt but helped to focus attention on the crisis.

1. Schedule a Tune-Up

There are a variety of furnace components that must work together, including motors, sensors, flame rectification systems, gas valves, fans, and controls. A problem with one of these parts can cause the entire system to break down.

If your pilot light is yellow instead of bluish, this could indicate a ventilation issue. A yellow flame may also mean that carbon monoxide is not dissipating properly, which can be a serious health and safety issue.

If your furnace is older than 15 years, it may be time to consider an upgrade. A new heater can increase efficiency and lower energy bills. It can also be easier to maintain than an older unit, which is often difficult to keep running when it’s undergoing frequent repairs. The new equipment will probably come with a warranty, too.

2. Change Your Thermostat Batteries

A typical thermostat will give you a warning about the batteries going dead, either with a flashing light or a battery symbol on the display screen. It’s best to change the batteries before they completely die, but we know that humans procrastinate.

You can easily change your thermostat’s batteries yourself. Start by removing the outer cover from the wall plate (if you can). Next, turn the cover over to view the battery replacement openings. A small flat end screwdriver can help you gently dislodge the old batteries.

The town of Centralia sits on one of the largest deposits of anthracite coal in the world. The renegade mine fire is expected to burn for another 250 years or so. It’s not uncommon to hear about it on national news shows or in publications such as Atlas Obscura and Radiolab.

3. Reprogram Your Thermostat

By 1976 the residents of Centralia Pennsylvania were facing a desperate situation. For 15 years a fire had been burning uncontrollably at the edge of their town, producing deadly carbon monoxide and steam. Government officials had spent millions of dollars on numerous unsuccessful attempts to halt the flames, but infighting paralyzed decisive action.

To maximize energy-saving potential, your thermostat should be located where natural room air movement (warm air rising and cool air sinking) can reach it easily. It should also be free from drafts, sunlight, and furniture that could block the sensor. Set your “away” and “sleep” temperatures about 7 to 10 degrees lower than your home setting, advises Galeotafiore. This will reduce energy usage by slowing the flow of heat into your house, reducing heating costs.

4. Clean the Area Around Your Furnace

Throughout the winter, dust and dirt from indoor air circulates through your home and into your furnace. It’s not just a nuisance, but buildup can affect the operation and energy efficiency of your system.

First, make sure the furnace’s power switch is flipped off and the gas valve is closed. Then, remove the access panel and use a brush to loosen and vacuum off any dust or soot from the combustion chamber walls and burners.

You should also visually inspect the flue pipes that vent outside, making sure they are securely fastened and not blocked by any vegetation. This is also a good time to smell around the gas line for any signs of rotten eggs, which could indicate a gas leak. Ideally, you should do this annually.

5. Change the Filter

In late 1976, carbon dioxide and other deadly gases from the mine fire were seeping into Centralia residents’ homes. The Bureau of Mines began drilling new boreholes, but bureaucratic infighting stalled efforts to mitigate the problem.

Flo Domboski still feels it in the catch of her voice as she recalls last Valentine’s Day, when her 12-year-old son nearly died after a hole opened up under his feet while he played in the front yard. He hung onto tree roots until a cousin could pull him to safety.

Almost 60 years after it started, the Centralia fire continues to burn, fed by one of the largest coal veins in America. It has become a source of fascination for the world’s media, from Fox News to Atlas Obscura and Radiolab.