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Feb 3 2025

What You Need to Know about Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in Your Home

Many people worry about carbon monoxide, even when they don’t know much about it, and for good reason. This odorless, colorless gas has serious consequences if it accumulates in your home. According to the CDC, over 400 people in the U.S. die from carbon monoxide poisoning every year, with thousands more requiring emergency medical treatment.

At Van Drunen Heating & Air Conditioning, with over 50 years of experience in the HVAC industry, we’ve seen firsthand how proper maintenance and care of heating systems can prevent carbon monoxide issues. In this post, we’ll discuss the basics of carbon monoxide poisoning, how to notice the signs, and what steps you should take to prevent it.

What Is Carbon Monoxide?

Carbon monoxide is a toxic gas that is produced when fuels like natural gas, propane, oil, wood, and charcoal don’t burn completely. It’s nearly impossible to detect without proper equipment because it has no smell or taste, making it especially dangerous.

Common Sources of CO in the Home:

  1. Gas Furnaces – Malfunctioning or poorly maintained furnaces can produce CO.
  2. Water Heaters – Gas-powered water heaters may emit CO if not functioning correctly.
  3. Fireplaces and Wood Stoves – Improper ventilation can lead to CO buildup.
  4. Gas Stoves and Ovens – Prolonged or improper use may release CO into the air.
  5. Car Engines – Running a car in an attached garage, even with the garage door open, can lead to CO entering the home.
  6. Portable Generators – These can emit high levels of CO if used inside or too close to the home.

The danger of CO lies in its ability to bind to hemoglobin in your blood, reducing oxygen flow to vital organs. Without immediate action, CO poisoning can be life-threatening.

Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Recognizing the symptoms of CO poisoning early can save lives. The symptoms often start as mild but quickly become severe with prolonged exposure.

Early Symptoms:

  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Shortness of breath
  • Dizziness

Advanced Symptoms:

  • Vomiting
  • Confusion or memory loss
  • Chest pain
  • Muscle weakness
  • Loss of consciousness

Why It’s Crucial to Act Quickly:

CO poisoning can escalate rapidly, particularly in high-concentration exposure. If ignored, symptoms can progress to brain damage or death. Furthermore, CO exposure often happens at night when individuals are asleep, and symptoms go unnoticed. That’s why having preventative measures in place is critical for every home.

Preventing Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

The good news is that CO poisoning is entirely preventable with proper awareness and precautions. Here are some key steps homeowners can take to safeguard their families.

  • Install Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Having properly placed CO detectors can be a lifesaver. Here’s how to do it right:

  • Place detectors in every bedroom or within 10 to 15 feet of bedroom doors.
  • Install at least one on every level of your home.
  • Add a detector near major fuel-burning appliances, at least 15 feet away, to minimize false alarms.

Hard-wired detectors with battery backups are ideal as they alert the entire household if CO is detected.

  • Maintain Gas Appliances and Furnaces

Annual maintenance by certified professionals is essential for gas appliances:

  • Schedule yearly inspections for your furnace, water heater, and gas stove.
  • Check for any unusual operational signs, such as orange or yellow burner flames (they should be blue).
  • Look out for rusted or cracked heat exchangers in your furnace, which can cause CO leaks.

 

  • Keep Ventilation Systems Clear

Blocked vents or chimneys can trap CO indoors. Regularly check:

  • Dryer vents
  • Chimneys
  • Any air ducts connected to heating systems

Remove any debris, obstructions, or nesting materials that might block airflow.

  • Use Fuel-Burning Appliances Safely

  • Never use portable generators indoors or near open windows.
  • Avoid using your gas stove or oven as a heating source.
  • Only use charcoal grills or camping stoves outdoors, away from windows and doors.

 

  • Be Cautious with Vehicles

  • Never leave a car running in a closed or partially closed garage.
  • Regularly maintain your vehicle’s exhaust system to prevent leaks.
  • Know the Signs of CO Leaks

If you notice orange or yellow furnace flames, soot around appliances, or excess moisture on windows, it may indicate CO production. Seek professional inspection immediately.

  • Act Quickly if Alarms Sound

If your CO detector goes off:

  • Evacuate everyone from the home immediately.
  • Call 911 or your local emergency services.
  • Only re-enter the house once it has been inspected and declared safe.

Prioritize Safety in Your Home Today

Carbon monoxide poisoning is a serious risk, but it’s one that can be managed with awareness and prevention. By taking the proper precautions—such as installing CO detectors, maintaining your appliances, and following safety protocols—you can protect your loved ones from this silent danger.

At Van Drunen Heating & Air Conditioning, we’re committed to helping you create a safer home environment. We specialize in furnace maintenance and repair to ensure your heating systems don’t pose a carbon monoxide risk. Contact us today to schedule your furnace maintenance and take the first step toward a safer home.

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