Grant: Applied Research and Development Grants - Level 1

Homeowners lack knowledge and compliance when it comes to HVAC maintenance standards. The GaseousFuels Regulation O.Reg. 212/01, section 15 states ""An owner or user of an appliance, equipment, a work or anyother thing employed in the handling or use of gas shall ensure that the appliance, equipment, work or thingemployed in the handling or use of gas is maintained in a safe operating condition."" However, this is often notthe case, as breakdowns in the filtration system are common due to dirt, debris and owner neglect. Thesebreakdowns often cause serious health complications; with one of the most common ailments being carbonmonoxide poisoning which, if left untreated, can ultimately result in death. The current proposal is develop the""MB Furnace Minder"", a product that will increase consumer awareness and knowledge of their obligations tosafely maintain equipment and appliances in their homes. To achieve this goal, industry partner MartinoContractors will partner with faculty and students in Humber's Electronics Engineering Technology program todevelop the controls, counters and detectors. Integrated sensors will be able to measure for carbon monoxidelevels at the most common source in the house, detect natural gas, measure heating cycles with a warning whentolerance levels have been reached, and let the owner know when maintenance is required. These devicescurrently exist as separate entities, however, to our knowledge; they do not exist in one succinct package builtinto the furnace that can ensure optimum safety and maintenance of a natural gas or oil burning furnace. Thestudents in Humber's Electronics Engineering Technology program will work with the co-applicants to developthis innovative system. This will not only be convenient for the home owner, but will also add a layer safety totheir families and neighbours.