Shop Today
Carbon monoxide (CO) is an invisible, odorless gas that poses a serious risk to your household. Many homeowners are unaware of how CO can enter their home, why it’s so dangerous, and the critical steps to prevent exposure.
We’ll explain the risks associated with carbon monoxide, how it can leak into your home, and why regular furnace inspections and CO detectors are essential for your family’s well-being.
What Is Carbon Monoxide and Why Is It Dangerous?
Carbon monoxide is produced when fuels such as natural gas, propane, oil, coal, or wood do not burn completely. In an enclosed space, CO can accumulate to dangerous levels, leading to carbon monoxide poisoning.
Even in small amounts, CO exposure can cause symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, nausea, confusion, and fatigue. Prolonged or high-level exposure can result in unconsciousness, organ damage, or even death. Because CO is undetectable by human senses, it’s known as the “silent killer,” making it especially important to take proactive safety measures.
How Does Carbon Monoxide Enter Your Home?
Carbon monoxide leaks can stem from multiple sources, including:
- Malfunctioning gas furnaces – A cracked heat exchanger or faulty burner can allow CO to seep into your home’s air supply.
- Blocked or damaged flue vents – If exhaust gases cannot properly exit through the venting system, CO can backdraft into the living space.
- Improperly installed or maintained appliances – Gas-powered water heaters, stoves, fireplaces, and dryers must be properly vented to prevent CO buildup.
- Running vehicles in attached garages – Starting a car in an enclosed garage, even with the door open, can cause CO to spread into the home.
- Portable generators and space heaters – Using fuel-burning devices indoors or too close to windows and vents can introduce CO into your home.
The Importance of Annual Furnace Inspections
A properly functioning furnace is key to preventing carbon monoxide leaks. Over time, components of your heating system can wear down, crack, or become obstructed, increasing the risk of CO exposure. That’s why it’s critical to have your furnace inspected and maintained by a professional HVAC contractor at least once a year.
During a furnace inspection, we will:
- Check for cracks or damage in the heat exchanger.
- Ensure the burner is operating efficiently.
- Inspect and clean the flue and venting system.
- Test for any signs of CO leaks.
Routine maintenance not only enhances the safety of your home but also improves furnace efficiency and longevity.
Why You Need Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Even with proper furnace maintenance, an undetected CO leak is always a risk. That’s why every home should be equipped with carbon monoxide detectors. These devices are designed to alert you when CO levels become dangerous, giving you time to take action.
For maximum protection, follow these placement guidelines:
- Install a CO detector on every level of your home.
- Place detectors near bedrooms to ensure you are alerted while sleeping.
- Keep them at least 15 feet away from fuel-burning appliances to prevent false alarms.
- Test detectors monthly and replace batteries at least once a year.
At Air Services Unlimited, we professionally install carbon monoxide detectors to provide an extra layer of safety for your household.
Protect Your Home and Family Today
Carbon monoxide is a serious hazard, but with proper precautions, you can keep your home safe. Scheduling an annual furnace inspection and installing reliable CO detectors are two of the most effective ways to prevent CO poisoning.
Air Services Unlimited is here to help ensure your heating system operates safely and efficiently. Contact us today to schedule heating maintenance in Beaumont, TX or have CO detectors installed by our expert team.
Contact Air Services Unlimited—Exceeding Customer Expectations!