‘Tis the season to fire up the heat, or at least to turn it on to make sure it works. It’s also the perfect time for you to have a professional heating and air conditioning provider check your furnace to be sure it is functioning properly. A gas furnace that isn’t functioning properly can release harmful carbon monoxide inside your home, and possibly lead to carbon monoxide poisoning.
Thankfully, your professional heating and air conditioning provider can check carbon monoxide levels while checking the performance of your furnace. They can suggest remedies if carbon monoxide is detected.
Is Carbon Monoxide in My Home Really a Concern?
Simply put – YES! Carbon monoxide poisoning can cause many symptoms including headaches, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and even death.
I strongly recommend installing a carbon monoxide detector in any home that has LP or natural gas furnaces or appliances, or that has an attached garage. You will find that carbon monoxide alarms are not expensive, and you can easily install it in a receptacle.
Proper Installation Makes a Difference
You Tube and DIY videos show us how to do a wide variety of tasks and projects. However, I’ve seen a great deal of gas logs, furnaces, water heaters, and other appliances installed by individuals who might lack the training needed to recognize potential problems.
As a result, I have come across a lot of improperly installed equipment over the years. Fortunately, most of those installations have been in older homes built several years ago. Newer, more airtight homes don’t have less air leaks and there would have been issues.
Remember, for your family’s safety, install a carbon monoxide detector in your home if you use LP or natural gas. And, have your heating system checked by a professional. Sure, you may save a little money doing it yourself. But, the safety of those you love should be your top priority!
Let us know if we can help you in any way!
Steve Warren