If you have a furnace, then you know that one of the dangers of running these systems is their potential to emit carbon monoxide. Although this is a worst-case scenario, it’s still something you should be aware of and informed about. Knowledge about carbon monoxide is what will keep you safe in the face of danger.
Carbon monoxide is so dangerous because it’s a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas. The best way to detect it is with a great carbon monoxide detector. This way it can be identified before it starts to affect you or any of your loved ones. It’s also important to note how it might affect your body. If you are looking for furnace repair in Bloomington, MN, then we’re the professionals who can perform this work. For now, though, let’s talk about what you should know about CO below.
Common Signs of Furnace Leaking Carbon Monoxide
There are telltale signs that your furnace might be leaking. Here are a few signs:
- Soot stains or brown or yellow stains around your heater
- The smell of gas. Although carbon monoxide is odorless, the leakage might be accompanied by the exhaust gases you can smell.
- Stuffy or stale air.
- You smell something burning.
- Lots of condensation on your windows.
- Recurring problems with your pilot light blowing out.
We understand that some of these signs might be difficult to notice. Even when you notice them, you might think they’re not such a big deal. We want to encourage you to contact a professional as soon as possible if you notice one or more of these issues.
Signs of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Once carbon monoxide has been in your home for a while, you run the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. If you’re dealing with any of these personal symptoms, then it’s time to contact a professional.
- Nausea
- Weakness
- Vomiting
- Shortness of breath
- Blurry vision
- Pain in chest
- A chronic dull headache
- Dizziness confusion
- Blacking out
Can a Dirty Furnace Cause Carbon Monoxide Leaks?
Many of our homeowners wonder what causes carbon monoxide leaks. A common question we get is if a dirty furnace can affect potential carbon monoxide leaks. A dirty furnace can potentially cause a carbon monoxide leak because a dirty furnace filter can restrict your airflow. This is why we encourage you to swap out this filter once a season. This is one of the simple things you can do to improve your home immensely.
How Do You Test a Furnace for Carbon Monoxide?
Do you want to confirm or deny your doubts when it comes to a potential carbon monoxide leak? You can actually test for a potential carbon monoxide leak. All you need to do is watch for the signs. If this doesn’t confirm nor deny your suspicions, then we suggest buying a carbon monoxide testing kit at your local hardware store. This can’t match the technology that a professional can provide and it shouldn’t be your final step, but it is a great way to figure out what’s going on in your house.
Contact Residential Heating and Air Conditioning for your furnace repair in Bloomington, MN.