Babyproofing: HVAC, Plumbing and Electrical Systems

For any caregiver, absolutely nothing is more critical than ensuring your baby’s protection.

Once your babies start crawling, your whole living space can seem like one enormous hazard!The HVAC, plumbing and electrical equipment can be especially concerning.

Using our detailed guide, you can take steps to make sure your home’s critical systems are adequately babyproofed for your complete reassurance.

Keep Fingers and Toes Out of HVAC Vents and Registers

Vent covers that are installed in the air vents throughout your home are frequently attractions for tiny fingers and toes. Here’s how to ensure your child’s safety:

• Screw down registers: If your base or side registers easily detach, screw them in place to ensure they’re not going anywhere.
• Cover registers with childproof vent covers: These use a mesh safety barrier to keep small objects from falling inside without restricting airflow.

Keep Small Hands Away from the Thermostat

Kids are drawn to buttons and screens, so the thermostat is an inviting plaything. Use these tips to stop unauthorized temperature fluctuations in your residence:

• Place the thermostat up higher: A home thermostat should be mounted at adult eye level. Avoid putting furniture near it that could tempt kids to climb up to try to access it.
• Lock the controls: Some thermostats have built-in child-lock capabilities to keep anyone from adjusting the settings. If yours lacks this feature, consider installing a thermostat cover that stops curious kids from changing the temperature.

Keep Baby Out of the Utility Closet

If your HVAC system units are positioned in the basement or utility closet, this is a key place to target for babyproofing. Toddlers shouldn’t be in these spaces, so follow these tips to keep them safe:

• Install doorknob covers: If the utility closet is enclosed, you have it easy. Just attach a childproof cover on the doorknob to stop your kids from opening the furnace room door.
• Install a safety gate: If your HVAC equipment is in an open area, set up a safety gate to keep curious crawlers from getting next to your furnace or water heater.
• Inspect the carbon monoxide detectors: Every home should have at least one carbon monoxide detector on each level, notably if you have gas appliances. Unfortunately, electrical versions are simple for kids to reach. Think about installing combination CO/smoke detectors or alarms on the ceiling for additional safety.

Prevent Hot Surface Burns

In many homes, heat sources aren’t confined to the utility room. Here’s how to safeguard your child from hot surfaces:

• Install heat guards: Place a basic baby gate or specially designed heat guard around heating units to establish a barrier between your child and hot surfaces.
• Avoid using space heaters: A properly tuned heating system should keep you comfortable in every room and there should be no need to add a space heater to draw curious kids.

Prioritize Babyproofing Your Home’s Electrical System

Electricity is crucial for modern homes but presents safety hazards for kids. Here’s how to babyproof your home’s electrical setup:

• Implement outlet covers: Building code mandates new receptacles to be tamper resistant. If you have older outlets, you can upgrade them with outlet covers. Choose sliding covers instead of the plug-in style, which toddlers can sometimes remove.
• Hide or tape down cords: Exposed cords are a tugging and chewing hazard. Use cord concealers or tape them down next to the baseboards. Power strip covers are also beneficial for preventing little fingers from reaching the sockets.
• Make sure your electrical panel is locked: If your electrical panel is within reach, make sure it’s securely closed and locked to deter inquisitive kids from playing with it.

Take Advantage of These Plumbing Safety Tips

Toddlers adore water play. Be Sure they stay safe around your sinks, tubs and toilets with these safety tips for plumbing systems:

• Lower the water temperature: Configure your water heater to 120 degrees F to prevent scalding at the tap. Just don’t go any cooler than this, or you risk microbial growth in the tank.
• Install a faucet cover: Has your child ever bumped their head on the bathtub faucet? Soft, rubberized covers are an easy way to prevent this type of injury.
• Implement toilet locks: Toddlers are often fascinated with the toilet. A special lock deters little ones from accessing unsanitary water or dropping toys inside, which can cause pipe clogs.

Partner with Mark Allen for Your Home HVAC, Plumbing and Electrical in Bethel Park

With these childproofing tips, you can be sure to create a secure environment for the whole family. At Mark Allen, we’re proud to help parents protect their little ones with quick, dependable HVAC, plumbing and electrical service in Bethel Park. We strive to make a big difference in the lives of every customer we serve.

Contact 412-484-3317 today to connect with our team. We’ll ensure your home continues to be comfortable and secure for everyone.