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As the temps drop and your furnace kicks into gear, there’s one silent danger homeowners should be aware of—carbon monoxide (CO). It’s colorless. Odorless. Tasteless. And yet, it can pose a serious risk to your family’s health if not properly managed.
But don’t worry—preventing carbon monoxide leaks is 100% doable with a little awareness and the right maintenance routine. Let’s walk through the basics of keeping your furnace safe and your air clean all season long.
First, What Is Carbon Monoxide—and Why Is It Dangerous?
Carbon monoxide is a byproduct of burning fuel. That means anything that burns natural gas, oil, propane, wood, or charcoal can produce it—including your furnace.
When appliances are working correctly, CO is safely vented outside. But if something goes wrong—like a cracked heat exchanger or blocked flue—CO can leak into your living space. And because it’s invisible and odorless, you may not know it’s there until symptoms appear.
Symptoms of CO exposure include:
- Headaches
- Nausea or dizziness
- Confusion
- Fatigue
- Chest pain or shortness of breath
In severe cases, CO poisoning can be life-threatening. So all that to say, it’s definitely something you want to take seriously!
How to Prevent Carbon Monoxide Risks With Your Furnace
1. Schedule Annual Furnace Maintenance
Your furnace needs a yearly check-up—just like your car. A licensed technician will inspect, clean, and test the system to ensure it’s running safely and efficiently.
This includes checking the heat exchanger (where CO leaks can start), exhaust system, and gas connections.
2. Install Carbon Monoxide Detectors
CO detectors are a must-have in any home with fuel-burning appliances. Place them near sleeping areas and on each level of your home.
Test them monthly, replace batteries twice a year, and change the detector itself every 5–7 years (check the label for specific timing).
3. Keep Vents and Exhaust Clear
Blocked vents can trap carbon monoxide inside. Check that your furnace exhaust vent and intake pipes (often found outside or on your roof) are free of debris, snow, or animal nests.
4. Never Use the Furnace Room as Storage
Avoid stacking boxes or storing flammable items near your furnace. Not only is it a fire hazard, but poor airflow around the unit can lead to incomplete combustion—and that can result in CO production.
5. Replace Air Filters Regularly
A clogged filter can restrict airflow and put stress on your system. This affects how efficiently your furnace burns fuel, which in turn can raise the risk of CO leaks. Most homes should replace filters every 1–3 months.
Be Aware of “Red Flag” Furnace Behavior
Call a professional if you notice:
- Soot or scorch marks near the furnace
- Yellow or flickering burner flames (they should be blue!)
- Unusual odors
- Condensation on windows near the furnace
These can all be early signs of incomplete combustion or ventilation issues.
Contact Advance Mechanical for All Your Furnace Needs in Pitt, Beaufort, and Lenoir Counties
Staying warm shouldn’t come with a side of worry. With routine maintenance, working detectors, and good habits, you can enjoy a cozy, safe winter without the risk of carbon monoxide surprises.
Need to schedule a furnace safety check? Our team here at Advance Mechanical is here to help—because your safety is always priority number one. Contact us today!