HVAC Related Carbon Monoxide Hazards And How to Prevent Them

Most people in the United States tend to spend a major portion of their time indoors regardless of the weather. What people don’t understand is that indoor air quality is often poorer as compared to outside air. The same has been state by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as well.

Sometimes, the newer central heating systems may also contribute to a decreased indoor air quality, which can ultimately result in various types of ailments.

Inefficient or malfunctioning central AC system can be a cause of illnesses and carbon monoxide poisoning for you and your loved ones. The post discusses various carbon monoxide hazards related to HVAC systems and steps you can take to prevent them.

Central Air Conditioner Related Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Heaters may release carbon monoxide in households as per the University of Rochester Medical Center. As a substance, carbon monoxide is both odorless and tasteless. However, that doesn’t make it any less deadly. Carbon monoxide can still result in serious illnesses. This is even when the monoxide levels emitted are not high enough to be fatal.

Carbon monoxide may be a dangerous possibility if there is incomplete fuel combustion or the central heating unit is not working as it should. Glaring symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are as follows:

• Headaches
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Shortness of breath

Typically, these symptoms start off as mild and gradually progress into something serious. You may experience other symptoms and illnesses as a result of faulty maintained systems.

Other Illnesses and Symptoms

HVAC systems need to be maintained properly or they can result in a variety of illnesses and symptoms. You need to make sure the filters are cleaned or replaced on a regular basis and that you get a professional to have a look at your system periodically.

Apart from carbon monoxide poisoning, you need to be careful about mold growth and mites within the heating unit. There is something wrong with your central heating if you experience dryness in the mouth, nose, or eyes. Sneezing, coughing, allergies, and fatigue are other signs there is something wrong.

Steps to Take

These are a few steps you can take to ensure your central heating is clean and safe. You need to replace faulty components and units with newer, improved models. You should also ensure that the system is being installed correctly by professionals. New models can give trouble if they are not installed properly. This is why it’s paramount that you only work with trained and certified HVAC contractors.

It’s critical for furnaces and air systems to be maintained on a regular basis. This is true even when the unit is new if you want to maintain superior air quality. Tasks include everything from basic upkeep to proper and periodic filter changes. You should have a local HVAC contractor take a look at your unit at least twice a year as part of preventative maintenance.

Always Purchase a Quality HVAC System

You need to purchase a quality central heating system if you want clean, safe, and efficient heat source for your Bay Area home. You want to buy the best in your budget if you want to ensure the safety and health of your loved ones.