Winter is not far off, and more homeowners are going to turn to their furnace for warmth. However, warming the home poses a risk of a carbon monoxide leak. This is why it’s crucial that you’re able to identify potential signs of a leak of this poisonous gas.
What Is Carbon Monoxide?
Carbon monoxide, abbreviated as CO, is a toxic gas that’s also flammable. It’s mainly undetectable because it emits zero colors and odors. This has caused people to give the gas the moniker “the silent killer.” When you breathe in CO, the gas suppresses your blood’s ability to carry oxygen to your organs, resulting in asphyxiation.
What Causes a Leak?
CO is created when fuel from a source like oil or coal only burns partially. Appliances like a gas furnace, water heater, and car engine are capable of emitting and leaking CO. This can happen especially if the appliance or vehicle has some sort of deficiency. In the case of a furnace, a CO leak can stem from a crack in the heat exchanger.
Signs of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Since CO produces zero odors and colors, you’ll have to rely mainly on bodily symptoms, such as:
- Headaches
- Breathlessness
- Nausea
- Loss of consciousness
- Reduced indoor air quality; the air may feel stuffy
Leak Prevention
Make arrangements for a yearly HVAC inspection. A leak usually stems from one or more defective parts. A technician may also recommend an entire HVAC replacement. Modern units run on a ductless heating system and use electricity instead of gas, thus fully eliminating the possibility of a CO leak from the HVAC. If you maintain your current system, then consider installing a CO detector.
We Inspect Furnaces for a Carbon Monoxide Leak Near Waller
A safety check can offset any CO risks before prepping your furnace for the impending winter. Contact WestCoast Heating & Air to make arrangements for an HVAC inspection and alleviate the hazards of a carbon monoxide leak.
Carbon Monoxide Leak Near Waller
Serving Puyallup, Sumner, Orting, Graham, Bonney Lake, Tacoma, Pierce County, Parkland, Waller & Summit
Posted on November 4, 2021 | Published by Ignite Local | Related Local Business