HVAC Hacks: Tips for Novices and New Homeowners

3 Ways To Detect Carbon Monoxide Leaks And Seek Urgent Furnace Repair Services

One of the common problems your furnace can experience is carbon monoxide leaks. Not only can carbon monoxide leak make your furnace inefficient, but it can lead to serious health issues or even loss of lives. There is a good reason why people refer to carbon monoxide as 'the silent killer.' It is non-irritating, tasteless, colorless, and odorless.

Unfortunately, by the time you notice its presence, it could already be too late. For this reason, this article will highlight what you should watch out for to help you detect carbon monoxide (CO) leaks in your furnace.

 1. Carbon Monoxide Detector

One of the most reliable indicators of carbon monoxide leak is the carbon monoxide alarm. If it goes off, it could mean your furnace is leaking carbon monoxide. To ensure no leak will go unnoticed, you need to keep checking your detector to ensure it works.

For a more rapid detection, ensure you install a detector near the ceiling and in every bedroom. If your furnace is leaking carbon monoxide, do not take your chances trying to fix the leak. Instead, evacuate your home and call a certified furnace repair contractor right away.

 2. Red Flags on Your Furnace

Inspecting your furnace can also help you identify carbon monoxide leaks. First, check the surface of your furnace. Can you notice a large amount of soot on it? If yes, you could be looking at a carbon monoxide leak.

Also, if you notice a funny smell from your furnace, there is a high possibility this gas is already in the air. Carbon monoxide may not have a smell, but the issues behind the leak may produce a smell. So, never ignore funny smells in your furnace.

Next, you need to check the flame of your furnace. If its color is yellow instead of blue, it could signal carbon monoxide leaks. Therefore, you need to schedule furnace repair immediately to have the problem fixed effectively.

3. Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Excess exposure to carbon monoxide reduces oxygen in your body. As a result, you may experience headaches, dizziness, confusion, blurred vision, nausea, weakness, or shortness of breath. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms and suspect your furnace could be leaking carbon monoxide, then your suspicions could be correct.

You need to vacate your home and seek immediate medical treatment. But more importantly, you should have your furnace repaired before you reoccupy your home.

Now that you know how to detect a carbon monoxide leak from your furnace, your next step should be to turn off the system. Be sure to schedule immediate furnace repair as soon as you notice signs of carbon monoxide leaks. The sooner you can get the leaks stopped, the sooner you eliminate these risks from your home.


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