What You Need to Know About Carbon Monoxide and Your Furnace

There's nothing quite like the warmth of a cozy home. For many, a gas furnace has become the go-to solution to heat your home and achieve that warm homey feeling during the winter months.

A gas furnace can transform your home into a warm and inviting sanctuary. We get asked a lot if a gas furnace is safe or if there are risks of carbon monoxide poisoning. Let’s explore the benefits of having a gas furnace in your home while prioritizing safety this winter season and understanding the signs of carbon monoxide poisoning.

What is a furnace?

A furnace is a central heating system that uses natural gas or propane to efficiently warm your home. It provides reliable heat throughout your home via a network of ducts or pipes, creating a living space for your family that is warm and inviting throughout.

One of the key features of a furnace is its thermostat, which allows you to set and regulate the desired temperature. This level of control ensures that your home - and your entire family - remains comfortable, no matter how cold it gets outside.

How to Choose the Best Furnace (Steps as a guide)

When it comes to ensuring warmth without worry, selecting the best furnace is crucial. These five steps will guide you through the process:

• Assess Heating Needs: Assessing your heating needs is essential. Firstly, calculate the square footage to determine required heating capacity.* Consider your climate for the best furnace selection. Evaluate your house’s insulation for maximum efficiency and minimizing energy wastage.
• Understand Energy Efficiency Ratings: Energy efficiency ratings, measured by AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency), determine a furnace's fuel-to-heat conversion efficiency.* Opting for a high AFUE-rated furnace maximizes heat output for lower energy costs and environmental impact, making it a smart and eco-friendly choice.
• Sizing the Furnace: Selecting the correct furnace size is vital for efficient heating. It should match your heating needs to prevent overwork or underuse. This ensures cost-effective and comfortable heating.
• Choose Fuel Type: Consider natural gas, propane, or electric for your furnace. Understand the benefits and limits, aligning with your needs and budget.* Factor in local availability and costs for an informed decision.
• Consider Professional Installation: Professional installation is key for safety and efficiency. Hiring a certified technician ensures correct installation, minimizing risks like malfunctions, leaks, or hazards. A reputable heating and cooling installation company guarantees quality work and adherence to industry standards, providing peace of mind regarding your furnace's safety and efficiency.*

*Our certified and skilled technicians are trained to work out all these details so you can be sure to select the best furnace for your home.

Maintenance and Furnace Repairs (Tips)

Maintaining a gas furnace is vital for its longevity and efficiency, ensuring it runs smoothly throughout its lifespan. Regular upkeep not only extends the life of a gas furnace but also guarantees that it operates at peak performance when you need it the most.

Follow these essential tips to keep your furnace in optimal condition:

• Regular inspections: Scheduling annual maintenance checks by a certified technician allows for early detection and resolution of potential issues before they escalate, preserving the integrity of your furnace.
• Changing air filters: Regularly replacing air filters supports optimal furnace performance, as clean filters facilitate efficient airflow, leading to improved heating efficiency and air quality. It's recommended to replace filters at least every 30 days.
• Cleaning and lubrication: To guarantee a well-functioning furnace, ensure that components are kept clean and adequately lubricated. This practice contributes to smooth operation and minimizes wear and tear on moving parts. Focus on areas such as the blower assembly, motor, and bearings as applicable to your specific model of furnace.
• Addressing common issues with a gas furnace: Familiarize yourself with common furnace problems like pilot light issues or thermostat malfunctions. Knowing when to tackle these issues yourself and when to seek professional assistance can prevent further damage and ensure safe operation.

Prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Carbon monoxide (CO) safety is paramount for a warm and worry-free home environment.

Carbon Monoxide poisoning poses a real danger. CO is a colorless, odorless gas that can be produced by incomplete combustion of fuels like gas, oil, and wood. When not properly vented or contained, it can pose serious health risks to occupants. According to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission, 200 people in the United States will die this year from carbon monoxide poisoning caused by problems in their heating system and roughly 10,000 people will be injured as a result of overexposure to carbon monoxide.

Recognizing early signs of CO poisoning is important for your safety. Common symptoms include headaches, dizziness, nausea, and fatigue, which can escalate to more severe conditions if left unaddressed.

Tips to Prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

• Proper ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation in your living space to allow fresh air to circulate and mitigate the risk of CO buildup
• Carbon Monoxide detectors: Install CO detectors on every level of your home and near sleeping areas. Regularly check and replace their batteries.
• Regular inspections and maintenance: Schedule annual maintenance checks by certified technicians to inspect gas appliances and heating systems for potential CO leaks.
• Never block vents or flues: Keep vents and flues clear of obstructions to allow for proper air intake and exhaust.
• Avoiding DIY furnace repairs for your gas furnace: While it's tempting to tackle repairs yourself, it's safer to entrust gas furnace maintenance to professionals who have the expertise and tools to ensure safety and efficiency.

We offer furnace repairs and maintenance to ensure they are safe and in peak condition to maintain your - and your family’s - health and comfort. Schedule your appointment today.

Conclusion

Imagine a warm and cozy home where your entire family feels comfortable no matter where they are in the house. A gas furnace provides a great option for the colder months to come. No need to huddle in front of the fire - your entire family can stay warm and comfortable throughout.

When choosing the best furnace for your home, it’s important to safeguard against the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning. Furnace repairs and maintenance should be at the top of your priority list.

The warmth of your home should come without worry. Proper maintenance and awareness of your gas furnace is your best ally in achieving this.

Are you interested in installing a gas furnace? Contact us for expert advice, maintenance and installation services. Together, we'll ensure your home is a haven of warmth and safety, all year round. We’ll be happy to help!