How far should the area in front of a furnace be kept clear?

As the furnace sits my roommates keep piling stuff in front of it. I tell them it's not safe but I need a guideline to tell them It needs to be %26quot; %26quot; inches away from the front?How far should the area in front of a furnace be kept clear?At least 36 inches. Not only do you want a clear zone to avoid fires, the furnace needs room to draw air in. Also, in the event it needs service, there will be easy access.How far should the area in front of a furnace be kept clear?if it is a wall furnace, i would keep things at least 6 feet from it or 72%26quot;. i think 3 feet is too close.How far should the area in front of a furnace be kept clear?I have news for your roommates. My girl friend was the same way. She kept putting soiled clothing from the laundry ever closer to the furnace in spite of being warned. One afternoon, she was taking a nap up in the third floor bedroom, and was home alone. The clothing near the furnace caught fire. It spread rapidly through the entire house in minutes. By the time the firemen had arrived, she burnt to death--trapped on the third floor with no escape. Need I say more.....Keep EVERYTHING as far away as possible, from EVERY fire source in your home...because sometimes...there are no second chances.How far should the area in front of a furnace be kept clear?The unit should have a tag stating clearances. Generally 6 inches or less on the sides and back , and 12 inches at the front and around the flue pipe.