Your furnace is a fuel-burning appliance that heats your home, so it is crucial to understand what could go wrong with it and compromise your safety. One of the problems that something is wrong with your furnace is when it is leaking carbon monoxide. This is a very serious problem because carbon monoxide is a silent killing gas. The worse part is that you cannot spot it with your eyes because it is colorless and odorless. In this guide, you will learn more about how your furnace works and spotting a carbon monoxide leak.
How does the furnace prevent a carbon monoxide leak?
It is essential to understand how the furnace keeps you safe from a carbon monoxide leak in the first place. Carbon monoxide is the by-product of the fuel-burning process, which means your furnace produces the gas every time it is running.
When your furnace is functioning optimally, the carbon monoxide is contained within the heat exchange of the unit. Then it leaves the unit through the furnace’s flue vent that safely carries it out of your home.
How a furnace develops a carbon monoxide leak
According to furnace repair experts at Air Makers, several things can go wrong in your furnace and cause it to leak carbon monoxide. One of the common issues is a cracked heat exchanger in the furnace. Note that the heat exchange is manufactured with a metal that expands and contracts as the furnace heats up and cools down. As the furnace ages, the heat exchanger can develop cracks causing carbon monoxide to leak into your home.
A carbon monoxide leak can also develop if something is wrong with your furnace’s vent system. For instance, if it was incorrectly installed, it can form a blockage or leak. That means the carbon monoxide is released into your home’s air instead of being carried out.
Another sign of a carbon monoxide leak is on the furnace. The first noticeable sign is soot which can be black, brown, or yellow. It indicates a carbon monoxide leak in your furnace. Secondly, if you notice that the flame in your furnace is yellow instead of blue, that shows a carbon monoxide leak, and you should schedule furnace repair Toronto.
What to do to avoid the risks of carbon monoxide leak in your furnace
Have a carbon monoxide alarm
Your best option in detecting a carbon monoxide leak in your furnace is a carbon monoxide alarm. Other than having one ensure you check its batteries regularly to ensure it is still operational. Also, place the carbon monoxide detectors in all the right places around your home.
Keep the air filter clean.
Your furnace is likely to suffer carbon monoxide leaks when there is a problem with the airflow. You should change the air filter regularly to ensure that the system is working as it should be.
Schedule regular furnace inspection
One of the ideal ways to avoid carbon monoxide leaks in your home is to ensure a professional inspects your furnace at least every year. The specialist can inspect signs of cracks using specialized equipment and check the whole system to ensure it is functioning well.