Carbon monoxide leaks in furnaces are a common issue that can be fatal if not treated timely. To prevent such issues in your furnace, you can install carbon monoxide detectors to immediately sense the harmful buildup of gas and treat it accordingly. Also, ensure that you get your furnace checked up annually, especially in winter, to avoid this issue. Be careful to allow proper ventilation around your furnace to avoid carbon monoxide accumulation. Replace the air filters regularly and clean the exhaust flues for efficient furnace performance. You can also get professional help from a furnace installation company for technical solutions to this problem.
What is Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in Furnaces?
Many furnaces or fuel-burning appliances emit carbon monoxide. When this gas increases to a certain limit, it becomes harmful to the environment and people, known as carbon monoxide poisoning. This results in difficulty breathing, nausea, dizziness, headache, and other symptoms.
Solutions for Preventing Furnace Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Carbon monoxide poisoning can best be prevented with an integrated approach. Here are seven solutions that can minimize risks associated with furnaces:
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Install Carbon Monoxide Detectors
A reliable CO detector is one of the first efficient measures to avoid CO poisoning. To detect leaks early, place it near the furnace, sleeping areas, and other rooms. Ideally, a detector should be placed at every level of a building. Check the battery monthly and replace it yearly to maintain continuous functionality. Detectors present on the building’s main power supply are more reliable installations.
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Annual Furnace Check-ups in the Winter Season
An annual checkup is crucial to detect any present CO risk. While checking, check for any cracked heat exchanger that might be a leakage source. Make sure to verify if the system is well-ventilated and whether or not the exhaust has blockage. With regular yearly checkups, you can fix small problems in advance to eliminate fatal leaks.
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Ensure Proper Ventilation Around the Furnace
Proper ventilation can prevent the accumulation of carbon monoxide. Regularly check the surrounding area of the furnace and ensure that vents are clear. If the furnace is in a small, enclosed space, add more vents to dispel CO before it gets to dangerous levels. Exhaust systems should all lead straight outside to minimize the potential for CO to build up indoors.
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Replace Air Filters Regularly
A dirty air filter limits airflow, makes the furnace work more than required, and increases the possibility of CO emission. Filter replacement or cleaning is necessary every 1-3 months or as required. You can look up the furnace manual to choose the right kind of filter and its maintenance schedule.
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Check for Cracks in Heat Exchanger
Another essential component of your furnace is the heat exchanger. This device separates burning gasses from the interior air. Any crack in the exchanger allows the gasses that contain CO to enter the inhabited space. After each maintenance session, check the state of the heat exchanger for wear or damage. By doing so, you can reduce the CO hazard.
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Clean and Maintain Exhaust Flues
Exhaust flues take out the combustion gasses from the furnace. Over time, these load with debris, dust, or animal nests. Clean out flues periodically so that CO releases outside of the house. If you see blockage or corrosion signs in your flue system, go for deep cleaning or repair work.
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Fit a Ventilation System for Extra Safety
A whole-house ventilation system prevents the accumulation of toxic gasses, such as CO. Such systems ensure that fresh air constantly circulates in a house or building. Thus diluting CO levels and improving indoor air quality. A ventilation system, therefore, serves as an additional precaution against CO poisoning and other preventive measures.
Causes of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in Furnaces
Carbon monoxide is a very common problem with unmaintained furnaces. Here are some common causes behind this problem.
- Cracked heat exchangers, which allow CO to penetrate indoor air
- Blocked or bad exhaust system disrupting the escape of carbon monoxide
- Dirty, clogged air filters reduce the airflow
- Faulty pilot lights or burners
- Lack of sufficient ventilation of enclosed furnace resulting in CO trapping
- Lack of maintenance
- Poor installation of furnace components
How to Service Furnaces?
Carbon monoxide-releasing furnaces need proper servicing, including
- Clean the air filters or replace them every three months
- Check the exhaust flues and vents for obstructions and corrosion
- Check the carbon monoxide detectors at least every month
- Properly check the ventilation system
- Observe the pilot lights and burners for abnormal color or flicker
Read More: How to Install a Heat Pump Thermostat
Conclusion
You can avoid carbon monoxide buildup in your furnace by installing CO leak detectors and ensuring regular annual checkups by professional furnace installation companies. Also, make sure to clean the exhaust flues and replace the air filters regularly for maximum furnace efficiency and performance. Having a proper ventilation system will prevent CO buildup from poisoning, making the environment safe for you.