Oil heat is still a common heat source in many homes and commercial buildings, and keeping them up-to-date on service is critical to prevent problems. Malfunctioning oil heating systems are subject to puffbacks, which is an explosion in the firing chamber that can spread oil and soot throughout the building.
Puffbacks can be prevented, and if they do occur, can be cleaned up. ServiceMaster of Baltimore can help restore your home to its original condition after a puffback. Learn more about preventing them and what to do if it happens to you.
What to Do After A Furnace Puffback
A puffback may not happen all at once. In some cases, a slow trickle of smoke and soot can spread through your home’s forced air system, resembling ordinary dust. In others, a sudden explosion occurs, completely covering every surface in your home in oil and soot through every exhaust vent.
If you’ve experienced a furnace puffback, there is hope. Take the following steps to ensure you’re protected:
- Contact your insurance company to file a claim
- Discard exposed food and dry clean fabrics you intend to keep
- Fix the underlying furnace issue
- Contact ServiceMaster of Baltimore to begin the cleaning process
Clean Up After Puffback
Soot is not easy to clean, and it needs to be thoroughly removed to prevent damage to your respiratory system. While it’s tempting to use retail cleaners or other commercially available products, soot needs to be cleaned professionally.
Do not attempt to clean upholstery or furniture. A puffback needs to be thoroughly and professionally cleaned just like smoke damage to ensure your safety.
Professional Smoke Removal and Puffback Cleanup in Baltimore
ServiceMaster of Baltimore not only provides content cleaning services, but our facility is large enough to store your belongings onsite until repairs to your home or business are complete. Additionally, ServiceMaster of Baltimore also has state of the art equipment to ensure the highest level of care and service to our customers.
We’re here 24/7 to help restore your space to its original condition so you can feel comfortable again. For immediate help, contact us at (410) 498-8030.
