Carbon monoxide poisoning is the primary cause of accidental poisoning in the United States. Carbon monoxide, an odorless, tasteless gas, can be deadly to humans and animals. Carbon monoxide occurs naturally in the atmosphere, but also results from burning fuel. Malfunctioning appliances such as dryers, ovens, furnaces and water heaters can lead to a carbon monoxide leak in the home and put the occupants in danger.

It is important to use carbon monoxide detectors to protect your family. If a carbon monoxide leak is found in your home, a professional should check the following areas:

  • Furnace – Oil- and gas-burning furnaces are often the culprit in carbon monoxide leaks. A professional will measure the carbon monoxide being emitted in flue gases. Additionally, they will check the venting systems and connections for leaks from cracks, bad connections or damage.  The filtration system will be checked for damages and blockages. Finally, the heat exchanger and combustion chamber will be thoroughly examined for any signs of weakness, cracks or corrosion.
  • Chimneys – Chimneys must be thoroughly checked to ensure they are free of debris and other blockages. Animals will often use chimneys as shelter; the resulting nests can prevent the proper ventilation of gases and result in gases backing up into the home.
  • Appliances – All major appliances that burn gas will be checked to ensure they are ventilated properly. It is important to check all appliances that burn oil or natural gas including space heaters.
  • Fireplaces – Fireplaces must be evaluated to determine if there are any holes or blockages in the ventilation system. If the fireplace is not ventilated properly, gas can be funneled back into the home.
  • Pilot Lights – Pilot lights on appliances such as stoves, furnaces and water heaters should be checked to make sure they are operating properly.

For additional information on how to check your home for carbon monoxide leaks, contact Stack Heating & Cooling. Serving the Cleveland area since 1976, we specialize in safely providing home comfort and providing the best possible customer experience to you.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Cleveland, Ohio about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  For more information about carbon monoxide and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.

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