How to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning from a leak in your gas furnace

 
Using a gas furnace is a great way to heat your home. However, one drawback of opting for this type of appliance is that it produces carbon monoxide, a gas that poses serious health risks. Under normal conditions, the carbon monoxide produced gets directed out of your home. However, without the proper maintenance, cracks may develop in your furnace’s flue pipe or heat exchanger and subsequently allow carbon monoxide into your home. Here’s what you need to do to prevent carbon monoxide leaks.  

 

Ensure proper installation

To prevent your gas furnace from leaking carbon monoxide into your home, it’s essential that your appliance be correctly installed. In fact, an incorrect installation can lead to problems down the road, some of which may cause leaks. You can avoid this by hiring a licensed professional to handle the installation of your gas furnace. Only a professional has the training and experience necessary to ensure the job gets done to code.

 

Schedule regular maintenance calls

It’s best to schedule annual tune-ups for your gas furnace. Once a year, book an appointment with a technician to inspect your appliance. They’ll examine it for any issues that could lead to leaks, such as cracks in the heat exchanger. If the technician comes across a problem, they’ll conduct the necessary repairs and then ensure your furnace can operate safely once more

 

 

Change the air filter

Backed up airflow can increase the risk of carbon monoxide leaks. This makes it important to change your furnace’s air filter regularly. A clean filter will keep the air flowing and protect the health of everyone in your household.

 

Install carbon monoxide detectors

Carbon monoxide can be fatal, so if a leak does occur, it’s important that it get caught early. However, the gas is odourless and invisible, so you’ll need to install carbon monoxide detectors. These alarms will alert you if there’s a buildup of the gas in your home. Make sure to install them on every floor of your house, and inspect them regularly to make sure they’re working. Furnace repair and installation in Vancouver Are you thinking about installing a new heating system? Or maybe it’s time for your furnace’s annual inspection? Regardless of your needs, we’re here to help. From heat system repair to boiler replacement, Hillcrest Plumbing & Heating Ltd. in Vancouver has got you covered. Contact us today to schedule a maintenance call or find out more about our services.