Carbon Monoxide: The Silent Threat Every Homeowner Should Know About
As the weather cools and furnaces start running again, there’s one important safety topic every homeowner should have on their radar: carbon monoxide (CO). Often called “the silent killer,” carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can be deadly if it builds up inside your home. Understanding where it comes from and how to prevent it, is key to keeping your family safe and comfortable all season long.
What is Carbon Monoxide?
Carbon monoxide is produced any time fuel is burned. That means common household systems and appliances – like your furnace, water heater, gas stove, or fireplace. All of these can be potential sources if they’re not operating properly or venting correctly.
When CO inhaled, it replaces the oxygen in your bloodstream, leading to symptoms like:
- Headaches
- Dizziness or confusion
- Nausea or flu-like feelings
- Shortness of breath or chest pain
because it’s invisible and odorless, these early warning signs are often mistaken for something else – making prevention essential.
How Carbon Monoxide Leaks Happen
- Cracks or corrosion in your furnace’s heat exchanger
- Blocked vents or flues that trap exhaust gases inside
- Poorly installed or unmaintained gas appliances
- Running vehicles or generations in attached garages
How to Protect Your Home
Carbon monoxide dangers are preventable with a few steps:
- Schedule an annual furnace tune up
- A professional HVAC technician will inspect your heating system, clean vital components, and test for carbon monoxide leaks before problems arise
- Install CO monitors on every level of your home
- Keep vents and chimneys clear
- Make sure nothing like leaves, nests, or snow blocks exhaust vents outside your home.
- Never run gas powered equipment indoors or in garages.
- Always operate generators, cars, and grills outdoors and away from open windows or doors.
Your heating system should keep you warm, not put your family at risk. Having your furnace inspected and your CO detectors in good working order are simple ways to ensure a safe, comfortable, and worry-free fall and winter.
If it’s been a while since your last tune-up or CO test, now is the perfect time to schedule one. Our team at Brandywine Valley Heating & Air Conditioning is here to make sure your home stays safe and cozy all season long!