Winter is here, and with it comes the need to use your furnace to keep your home warm and cozy. However, before you crank up the heat, it is important to know some facts about carbon monoxide leaks and learn the ways to prevent them.
Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless gas that can be fatal if inhaled in large amounts. It is produced by burning fuel, such as natural gas or propane, and is commonly found as a by product of gas-powered appliances like furnaces. So, if your furnace is not working properly, it can release CO into your home, putting you and your family at risk.
In this blog post, we will talk about carbon monoxide leaks, how they happen, and how proper furnace maintenance can prevent them. To learn more or schedule a furnace maintenance appointment to help prevent carbon monoxide leaks in your home, contact the heating and air conditioning experts at Galmiche & Sons today.
What Causes CO Leaks from Your Furnace?
One of the biggest risks that come with furnaces is the chance of carbon monoxide leaks. There are various reasons why CO leaks from your furnace. Let us have a look at some of the major ones:
- Clogged air filter: A clogged air filter is one of the most common reasons for carbon monoxide leaks in your home. It can restrict the airflow to your furnace, causing it to work harder to circulate air. This eventually leads to a build-up of CO in your building. Thus, it is important to replace your furnace’s air filter regularly.
- Broken heat exchanger: The heat exchanger is that part of your furnace that separates the combustion chamber from the air that is circulated throughout your home. So naturally, if the heat exchanger is cracked or broken, CO can escape into your home.
- Outdated furnace: When your furnace exceeds its expected lifespan, it is common for it to break down or malfunction. If you are using an outdated furnace, there are increased chances it may be releasing carbon monoxide into your home. To avoid this, consider replacing a furnace that is more than 15 years old.
How Can Regular Maintenance Help You Prevent Carbon Monoxide Leaks?
One of the best ways to prevent carbon monoxide leaks from your furnace is through regular maintenance. It helps you keep your furnace in good condition and detect any potential issues early on. In this way, you will be able to resolve complications before they take a more severe form.
Some common furnace maintenance tips include cleaning your furnace regularly, keeping the vents open, changing filters regularly, etc. Further, scheduling a professional inspection of your furnace with an HVAC technician on a regular basis is essential too. They have the right knowledge and equipment to detect potential issues and make necessary repairs to keep carbon monoxide leaks at bay.
Contact Galmiche & Sons for Your Furnace Maintenance and Carbon Monoxide Leak Prevention in St. Louis
Are you looking for an experienced HVAC company that can help you with all your furnace maintenance needs in St. Louis? We at Galmiche & Sons have you covered.
After being in this industry for over 70 years, we have the skills and experience to detect the most minute issues with your furnace. Our team is trained to tackle all kinds of complicated furnace issues so that you can live in peace. We can perform regular furnace maintenance as well as repairs to keep your furnace in good working order and prevent carbon monoxide leaks. Contact us today to schedule your furnace maintenance.
