Carbon Monoxide and Your Furnace — Safety Guide for BC Homeowners
Carbon monoxide is a silent, odourless gas that can leak from malfunctioning furnaces. Knowing the warning signs and prevention steps keeps your family safe.
Signs of a Carbon Monoxide Leak
Common symptoms of CO exposure include headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion, and fatigue. Physical signs in your home include yellow or flickering furnace flames, soot accumulation around the furnace, stale or stuffy air, and condensation on windows near the furnace. CO detectors are essential safety devices that alert you to dangerous levels before symptoms appear.
Preventing Carbon Monoxide Leaks
Annual furnace maintenance is the best prevention against CO leaks. A licensed technician inspects the heat exchanger for cracks, checks gas pressure and burner operation, verifies proper venting, and cleans critical components. Never operate your furnace with a missing or damaged access panel, and keep vents and chimneys clear of debris and blockages.
What to Do If You Suspect a Leak
If your CO detector sounds or you suspect a leak, evacuate immediately and call 911 from outside. Do not re-enter until emergency services confirm it is safe. After the emergency, call a licensed HVAC technician to inspect and repair your furnace before restarting it. Install CO detectors on every level of your home and test them monthly.