Regular Heating Services And Alarms Protect Your Family Against Carbon Monoxide
Carbon monoxide is one of the gasses created when your gas furnace operates. Normally, this hazardous gas goes up the flue and exits your home so it isn't a threat to your family. However, in the case of a furnace malfunction, carbon monoxide can escape your furnace and seep into your home. Here are some things you can do to keep that from happening.
Get Annual Heating Services That Include Cleaning
Your gas furnace needs a tune-up every year before winter arrives. The services you get should include cleaning the combustion area as well as inspecting the flue and heat exchanger. If the technician spots cracks or other problems, your furnace can be repaired before you have to start using it every day.
Get Prompt Repairs If Your Furnace Malfunctions
Don't use your furnace if it isn't working properly. Your furnace has built-in safety measures that shut it down if the furnace overheats or if there are problems with the ignition controls. However, it may keep running when other malfunctions are present. The danger with operating your furnace when parts are malfunctioning is that damage can be done to the equipment that allows carbon monoxide to leak.
If your furnace makes unusual sounds, has odd odors, or doesn't heat your home very well because it cycles on and off too fast, call your heating repair service for help.
Mount Carbon Monoxide Alarms In Your Home
Mount a carbon monoxide alarm near your furnace and near your bedrooms so you're notified if the hazardous gas fills your home. Carbon monoxide is odorless, so you won't know it's present until you start having symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning. However, if you have alarms in the house, you'll be alerted early so you can leave your home and call your furnace company for emergency help.
Change The Furnace Filter Regularly
Changing the filter on your furnace is your responsibility, so you don't want to forget to change it as often as the furnace manufacturer recommends. A clogged filter reduces airflow, and that harms your furnace in a number of ways. Your furnace needs proper airflow to push heat through your home and to expel carbon monoxide up the flue.
A modern gas furnace that receives annual cleaning and servicing is a safe appliance to have in your home. However, any time gas is used as a fuel source, carbon monoxide is a potential threat. Guard against this threat with alarms and awareness so your family stays safe while you stay snug and warm throughout the winter.
Contact local heating services to learn more.