Clear the Clutter – Why Clearance Makes a Difference

As we roll into the holiday season, a lot of us start digging through boxes of decorations, storing summer gear, and tucking away those early Christmas gifts — the ones no one will go looking for in the attic.

But if you’re anything like me, those storage spaces aren’t just for decorations. The attic, garage, and mechanical closets often end up holding everything under the sun — except what they were designed for.

In newer homes especially, space for equipment like furnaces, water heaters, electrical panels, and air handlers is tight. Stacking boxes and totes can block airflow, restrict venting, and make equipment difficult to service — all real safety and performance concerns.

Before you start shifting things around this season, take a few minutes to make sure your storage isn’t creating a hazard.

Mechanical Equipment Clearance: Furnaces, Air Handlers, Water Heaters

These systems need breathing room — literally. When boxes and stored items press up against, or sit on top of mechanical equipment, they can trap heat, block combustion air, and make service nearly impossible.

Maintain 30 inches of clear working space in front of furnaces, air handles, water heaters, and other similar systems, and leave proper clearances around the sides and rear as specified by the manufacturer. When in doubt, give the equipment more space — not less.

Even a few boxes too close to a burner or vent pipe can affect performance or create a fire risk. It’s easy to overlook, but not allowing enough space is one of the most common issues I see during home inspections.

Electrical Panel Clearance

Electrical panels need to stay accessible — not just for convenience, but for safety and maintenance. Maintain at least 36 inches of clear working space in front of the panel, 30 inches across, and a clear height of 6 feet 6 inches (or the height of the panel, whichever is greater).

No shelving, ladders, or storage bins should block the electrical panel area. If you can’t stand comfortably in front of your panel and open the cover fully, it’s time to clear some space. Keeping this area open ensures electricians and emergency responders can safely reach the electrical panel when needed.

Combustion & Venting Safety

Gas appliances — furnaces, water heaters, or boilers — rely on proper ventilation to exhaust carbon monoxide and heat safely. When stored items press against vent pipes — or insulation shifts over time — vents can loosen or disconnect.

If you see scorch marks, rust, or loose vent connections, it’s best to have a licensed HVAC contractor or home inspector take a look. Even a small gap in a flue joint can create a serious safety issue.

Seasonal Reminder to Clear the Clutter

This time of year is a great opportunity to tidy up mechanical spaces. As the weather finally cools down enough to climb into the attic, take a look around and clear those areas near your equipment.

You might be surprised how much clutter has migrated toward furnaces, vents, or water heaters over time. A simple walk-through of your attic, garage, or closet can make a big difference in how safely and efficiently your home operates — and it might even prevent a costly service call later on.

The Bottom Line

When in doubt, give your equipment some space to breathe. Proper clearances protect your home, extend the life of your systems, and keep the people inside safe.

If you’re unsure about clearances or venting, reach out to a licensed contractor or schedule a quick inspection — a few minutes of review can prevent major headaches later.