Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Prevention

Summary: Your Minneapolis St. Paul Furnace may be a threat to your family. Defective furnaces can emit deadly Carbon Monoxide fumes that can kill. There are two critical things you can do to protect your family from this odorless gas, and you should do them today.

Is Your Furnace a Carbon Monoxide Threat in Minneapolis St. Paul, MN?

Recent news in the Twin Cities has brought the dangers of Carbon Monoxide poisoning into everyone's minds these days. A couple from the Twin Cities almost died when Carbon Monoxide levels in their home rose. The source of the deadly gas was the old furnace in their recently purchased home.

Carbon Monoxide is a product of incomplete combustion. It is a colorless, odorless gas that is heavier than air. It is highly poisonous and acts by replacing oxygen in the bloodstream when it is breathed. The symptoms of Carbon Monoxide poisoning can include a red face, headache, and fatigue. If these are not noticed, as is often the case when sleeping, coma and death can follow.

In Minnesota, defective furnaces are the most common sources of Carbon Monoxide poisoning. It's critical that all Minneapolis St. Paul furnace owners make certain that their furnaces are functioning properly. But, even a recently inspected furnace can develop problems without notice. Here are two ways you can protect your family from this threat:

Install Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Every Minnesota home should be equipped with Carbon Monoxide detectors. One should be installed near the entrance to each bedroom in the home. Others should be installed in the basement, and in frequently used rooms.

Carbon Monoxide detectors are available in all hardware and building supply stores. They're easy to install, and are battery operated. If your home isn't equipped with these life-saving devices, or if you need to install more, purchase and install as many as are required. Follow the instructions included with the detector, and change batteries on the schedule recommended by the device.

Have Your Furnace Inspected and Serviced in Minneapolis St. Paul

When was your furnace last inspected? Experts recommend that furnaces be inspected on an annual basis, just before the heating season begins. A furnace inspection will detect incomplete combustion, the source of Carbon Monoxide, as well as proper venting for your furnace. Usually, cleaning is all that is needed, but repairs may be needed.

When you purchase a new home, a furnace inspection is essential. If you have an older furnace or boiler in your home, inspections are even more critical. If your furnace wasn't inspected this year before the heating season began, it's not too late. Have it inspected now, for the sake of your family's safety.

Residential Heating and Air Conditioning has a team of expert furnace technicians. Call them today to have your furnace inspected. If the technician finds problems, they can usually repair any brand of furnace on the spot. Your family's health and safety are too valuable to risk.