Carbon monoxide leaks in your HVAC system can kill you. We all know the danger and have heard the horror stories of people unknowingly breathing in the colorless, odorless gas. In fact, it can poison you without warning. That is why carbon monoxide detectors are installed throughout your business and home.
What Is Carbon Monoxide?
Carbon Monoxide is a poisonous gas that can kill you. It is often called a “silent killer” because it is odorless and tasteless. People cannot tell when this gas is being released inside their home or business.
HVAC & Carbon Monoxide
A malfunctioning furnace or boiler can cause serious problems. Gases that do not properly vent can cause high levels of carbon monoxide to release into the air. A cracked heat exchanger can also cause these gases to be released into your home or business, where it can kill. A carbon monoxide leak within your HVAC system can kill.
Carbon Monoxide Detector
It is important to note that low levels of carbon monoxide do not always cause a CO sensor to go off. They are often programmed to go off when the carbon monoxide levels are dangerous enough to cause death. Low levels of this poisonous gas can still cause serious health issues.
Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
The warning signs can be subtle, yet life-threating, and can be increasingly dangerous for people who are sleeping or intoxicated. If you think you or someone you are with may have carbon monoxide poisoning, get into fresh air and seek emergency medical care.
- Dull Headache
- Weakness
- Dizziness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Shortness of Breath
- Confusion
- Blurred Vision
- Loss of Consciousness
When Detectors Go Off
Have you thought about what might happen if the carbon monoxide alarms go off? Here is the recommended protocol if your detectors sound an alarm:
- Evacuate the building
- Call the fire department
- Do a head count to determine if anyone is missing
- Turn off the heating system and any appliances
- Open all windows and doors to air out the space
- Get a qualified expert in to determine the cause of the leak and fix it
HVAC Safety Tips
Carbon Monoxide leaks are almost always fuel-burning appliances or heating systems. To help prevent carbon monoxide leaks from happening, follow these safety tips:
- Schedule Regular Furnace Maintenance
- Inspect Heat Exchangers
- Clean Vents and Flus
- Businesses with commercial kitchen equipment should have fuel-burning appliances inspected.
Read more information from the CDC about carbon monoxide poisoning.
Carbon Monoxide poisoning can be fatal. If you suspect a carbon monoxide leak, call Big Fish now. We’ll bring in a certified HVAC professional to ensure your equipment is safe, clean and in good working order. Call us at 512-653-1414 or contact us online.
