You turn on your furnace every winter when the temperature plummets, but are you mitigating carbon monoxide risks? One common question homeowners have is, “Can a furnace cause carbon monoxide poisoning?” Our technicians at Complete Comfort Heating, A/C & Plumbing Repair offer highly-rated heating repair in North Sea, NY, and are here to break down the answer.
The Dangers of Carbon Monoxide Exposure
Carbon monoxide, also known by its chemical name CO, is one of the most dangerous gases. Unfortunately, humans can be subject to trace amounts of it via motor vehicle exhaust fumes, heating equipment, and other machines used in daily life. When carbon monoxide is in the air, it displaces the oxygen that your body needs and can lead to severe health consequences.
Common CO poisoning symptoms include:
- Physical weakness
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Nausea or vomiting
- Loss of consciousness
In extreme cases, carbon monoxide poisoning can be fatal. Understanding potential sources and mitigating the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning can save your life.
How Do Furnaces Emit Carbon Monoxide in North Sea, New York?
How can a furnace cause carbon monoxide poisoning if you use it daily but don’t feel sick? When your heating system works properly, you won’t feel any of the symptoms of carbon monoxide exposure.
A furnace’s design includes a sealed combustion chamber so that carbon monoxide and other harmful gases don’t escape into your home. It also includes an exhaust pipe that releases flue gases outside your home to protect your indoor air quality. If your furnace has any cracks in the pipe or the heat exchanger that seals the combustion chamber, you risk exposure to dangerous amounts of carbon monoxide.
Four Ways To Prevent Carbon Monoxide Exposure From Furnaces
Given the dangers that come with running a faulty furnace, it’s crucial that you prioritize combustion appliance safety measures in your North Sea home. Here are four expert-approved tips for preventing carbon monoxide leaks and keeping your family safe.
1. Check the Pilot Light
Not only can a furnace cause carbon monoxide poisoning, but the main cause of it can appear before your eyes. North Sea homeowners using gas-powered furnaces should pay attention to the pilot light when the heat turns on. It should appear a bright blue as the fuel burns and heats up the combustion chamber.
If your pilot light looks yellow, it’s a telltale sign of incomplete combustion. The flame will produce higher levels of carbon monoxide when this happens and endanger your home.
2. Schedule Furnace Tune-Ups
You should perform routine HVAC maintenance to ensure proper ventilation throughout your home. This includes changing your HVAC air filter regularly and removing any large objects blocking air vents. In addition, you should schedule professional tune-up services before the heating season begins.
A licensed technician will inspect your furnace for damage and perform repairs on the spot when they see minor issues. By prioritizing furnace maintenance, you can prevent carbon monoxide leaks as well as enjoy the following benefits:
- Lower utility bills
- Improved indoor air quality
- Extended furnace lifespan
- Peace of mind
3. Replace Your Heater When Necessary
Can a furnace cause carbon monoxide poisoning as it ages? Older furnaces stand a higher risk of leaking carbon monoxide because of the extra wear and tear they face. If your furnace is nearing the end of its lifespan and has a cracked heat exchanger releasing harmful gases, your best option is to replace it rather than try to repair the damage.
Experts can review when it’s best to repair or replace heating systems based on factors like the unit’s age and condition, as well as the cost of repairs and installation.
4. Install a Carbon Monoxide Detector
While this won’t necessarily prevent carbon monoxide leaks, it will certainly help keep you safe amid exposure. An alarm will trigger when it detects a trace of carbon monoxide in the air so you can evacuate and avoid dangerous CO poisoning symptoms. Shut off your furnace, head outside, and contact a licensed professional who can inspect your heating system for leaks.
Discover Heating Solutions in North Sea, New York, With Complete Comfort Heating, A/C & Plumbing Repair
Not only can a furnace cause carbon monoxide poisoning, but it can also diminish your home’s indoor air quality and energy efficiency when it’s not working properly. Prevent these issues from affecting your North Sea home by scheduling professional heating installation services with our experts at Complete Comfort Heating, A/C & Plumbing Repair. We are the region’s most trusted provider of residential HVAC services and are happy to assist with furnace repairs and maintenance.
Reach out to us today to rule out any heating system hazards and ensure furnace safety.