One Minnesotan couple experienced the real-life dangers of skipping a furnace safety inspection when they started their furnace for the first time and had to be airlifted to a nearby hospital.
After months of sitting idle, your heating system is especially vulnerable to numerous hidden risks and dangers. More than 400 Americans die from accidental carbon monoxide poisoning every year, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Known as the silent killer, carbon monoxide poisoning symptoms often present themselves while masking as other causes.
When carbon monoxide builds up in your blood it replaces the oxygen in your red blood cells leading to serious tissue damage and even death.
If you think you may be suffering from carbon monoxide poisoning, leave your home and find fresh air immediately then seek medical attention by calling 911.
To know if you or your home have carbon monoxide, there are three steps you can take to reduce your risk of poisoning.
Place detectors on every level of your home, especially near sleeping areas, and check them monthly. Carbon monoxide evenly mixes with the oxygen in the air, so install your detectors away from “dead air” corners, 3-5 feet from the floor or close to the breathing height of your family. Carbon monoxide detectors should be replaced every 5-7 years and avoid installing them near appliances or close to windows or doors.
Have your licensed HVAC technician out to inspect and test your entire HVAC system to ensure safety, optimal output and increase your efficiency. At Bob Boldt HVAC, our team conducts an in-depth safety inspection and diagnostics on your entire heating and cooling system.
According to the Minnesota Commerce Department, most carbon monoxide poisoning, incidents occur between October and May when furnaces run most often. Make sure you are prepared by scheduling a furnace tune-up before winter or better yet, before you turn your heating system on for the season!
To see if your furnace has carbon monoxide leaks check for visible signs such as: soot stains on or nearby your furnace, a yellow pilot light, excessive condensation on your unit, a stale or stuffy smell, rust on your units vent pipe, your pilot light blowing out constantly or unusual noises.
Common symptoms that can present as carbon monoxide poisoning are:
This silent killer can build up in your home due to improper ventilation or incomplete combustion from your fuel-burning systems like furnaces, water heaters or stoves. Always check your systems and appliances by licensed and certified technicians to ensure there are no leaks, blockages or potential risks that can affect you and your family later on.
When you schedule a furnace safety check with Bob Boldt HVAC, our team conducts an in-depth 30-60 minute combustion and ventilation evaluation on your heating system.
Serving Minnesota neighborhoods across Dakota County and throughout the south metro area since 1988, Bob Boldt HVAC offers homeowners the comprehensive furnace tune ups, heating system safety inspections and furnace repairs they trust and rely on.
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