Is Your Furnace Safe? How to Spot Hidden Carbon Monoxide Risks
Your furnace does more than heat your home—it also has the potential to put your family at risk if it isn’t properly maintained. Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas that can leak from a malfunctioning furnace, and the effects can be deadly.
Here’s how to keep your furnace running safely and protect your home from hidden dangers.
TLDR / Key Takeaway:
Carbon monoxide leaks from furnaces can be silent but deadly. Schedule regular inspections and contact Sparks Heating and Air Conditioning to ensure your system is safe and up to code.
What Is Carbon Monoxide (CO)?
Carbon monoxide is a toxic gas produced when fuel (like natural gas or oil) doesn’t burn completely. In a home, the most common sources include:
- Gas furnaces
- Water heaters
- Fireplaces
- Gas stoves or ovens
Furnace-Related CO Risks
When it comes to your HVAC system, CO risks are often related to:
1. Cracked Heat Exchanger
A crack in your furnace’s heat exchanger can allow combustion gases—including carbon monoxide—to leak into your home’s air supply.
2. Incomplete Combustion
If your furnace isn’t burning fuel efficiently, it may produce excess CO. This can happen due to dirty burners, poor ventilation, or incorrect gas pressure.
3. Blocked Vents or Flues
If exhaust gases can’t exit properly through the flue or chimney, they can build up inside your home.
Signs of a Carbon Monoxide Leak
- Headaches, dizziness, or nausea
- Burning smell or stale air
- Yellow burner flames instead of blue
- Soot or rust around the furnace or vents
- CO detector alarm sounding
If you suspect a CO leak, evacuate immediately and call emergency services.
How to Keep Your Furnace Safe
1. Schedule Annual Safety Inspections
Regular maintenance and inspections from licensed HVAC professionals help catch issues before they become dangerous.
2. Install CO Detectors
Place detectors on every floor, especially near bedrooms. Test them monthly and replace the batteries at least once a year.
3. Keep Vents Clear
Ensure furnace exhaust vents are not blocked by snow, debris, or nests.
4. Replace Aging Equipment
Older systems are more prone to leaks and less likely to meet today’s safety standards. If your furnace is 15+ years old, consider replacing it.
Why Northern Nevada Homeowners Trust Us
At Sparks Heating and Air Conditioning, safety is our top priority. We offer professional inspections, CO testing, and replacement systems designed for efficiency and protection.
Final Thoughts: Is Your Furnace Safe? How to Spot Hidden Carbon Monoxide Risks
Don’t let a hidden carbon monoxide risk endanger your family. A quick inspection today could prevent a serious emergency tomorrow.
Book your safety check with Sparks Heating and Air Conditioning and breathe easier all season long.
