Carbon monoxide (CO) is a gas you can’t see or taste. Exposure to CO can cause headaches, dizziness, confusion, weakness, chest pain, and nausea. The primary sources of CO poisoning in the home are fuel-burning furnaces, stoves, space heaters, fireplaces, and generators. Here are some ways to minimize the danger of CO exposure this winter.
Schedule an HVAC Tune-Up
Seasonal HVAC maintenance, preferably in spring and fall, is essential for many reasons. HVAC warranties may require it. Tune-ups help to improve energy efficiency, lower operating costs, and prevent repairs. Perhaps the most critical reason is that maintenance helps prevent CO poisoning. During a heating maintenance appointment, your technician will clean the equipment, including removing carbon deposits. They will inspect and calibrate the combustion system, including the burner, heat exchanger, and sealed chamber. It’s also crucial to inspect and calibrate the exhaust system. A well-functioning exhaust ensures the system vents toxic gases rather than letting them into the home.
Monitor Your Heating Throughout Winter
The industry measures filter effectiveness with the minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV). Most modern systems support at least MERV 8, and many support up to MERV 13. The higher the MERV, the better the air quality and the cleaner the equipment. Don’t use a higher MERV than your system allows. It will restrict airflow and cause the system to cycle for extended periods. Also, check the filter every month or two, and replace it as necessary.
You can also minimize cycling by avoiding manual adjustment and using a programmable or smart thermostat. Have the system automatically lower the temperature by as many as 10 degrees while you’re sleeping or away from home. Schedule a diagnostic at the first signs that your heating is cycling frequently or for extended periods.
Have Ample CO Detector Coverage, and Test Regularly
Homes should have CO detector coverage that reflects the size and number of fuel-burning appliances. Check local building codes, or consult a local HVAC technician for precise guidelines. As a general rule, you’ll need one:
- In each bedroom
- On each floor of the home
- Above or near an attached garage
- Near each fuel-burning appliance
Inspect and test each CO detector individually at least once a month. Note the manufacturing dates, and replace detectors in five to seven years or sooner if they fail their tests. Insert fresh batteries at least once a year.
Ensure Adequate Ventilation
Ventilation is often a concern in winter when people seal their homes tight and run their heating a lot. Schedule a duct inspection and ventilation assessment every two to three years. Correct any air leakage in ducts through sealing and other repairs. If you have inadequate ventilation, consider a mechanical ventilation system. There are whole-house fans that you can run throughout the winter. One example is a heat recovery ventilator (HRV). HRVs extract heat before venting stale air and use it to preheat the incoming fresh air.
Keep Vents Clear
Monitor external vents that connect to your kitchen and fuel-burning appliances. Snow and ice can block vents and allow CO to accumulate in the home. If you notice any buildup, clear it. If you can’t do it yourself, schedule a service call from a professional right away.
Maintain Your Chimney
All chimneys that create heat through combustion require an annual inspection and cleaning. Over time, chimneys are prone to obstructions, such as soot and creosote. Those substances can block ventilation and allow CO buildup in the home.
Take Care With Space Heaters
When used strategically, space heaters can help households stay warm while improving energy efficiency. Electric space heaters are preferable, as they run cleaner. The National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) advises against the use of unvented fuel-fired heaters. If you use one, take great care to ensure adequate ventilation and avoid CO buildup.
Heating and Ventilation Solutions Near You
OnTIME Service provides residential and commercial services. We are based in Henderson, KY and serve the surrounding areas, including parts of Indiana. Our NATE-certified technicians install, test, and service CO detectors. We specialize in cooling and heating services including furnaces, heat pumps, geothermal systems, air conditioners, and ductless mini-splits. Count on us to clean ducts and install and service ventilators, air purifiers, humidifiers, and dehumidifiers. Our plumbers install and service tank and tankless water heaters.
We offer maintenance plans that help our customers save money on tune-ups. We’re also available around the clock for emergencies. Call or contact OnTIME Service online to schedule an appointment or get answers to any questions you may have.
