One Minnesotan couple experienced the real-life dangers of skipping a furnace safety inspection when they started their furnace for the first time and had to be airlifted to a nearby hospital.
Why Every Minnesotan Homeowner Needs To Test Their System
After months of sitting idle, your heating system is especially vulnerable to numerous hidden risks and dangers. More than 400 Americans die from accidental carbon monoxide poisoning every year, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Known as the silent killer, carbon monoxide poisoning symptoms often present themselves while masking as other causes.
What Are Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning?
When carbon monoxide builds up in your blood it replaces the oxygen in your red blood cells leading to serious tissue damage and even death.
How Do You Know If You’re Suffering From Carbon Monoxide Poisoning?
If you think you may be suffering from carbon monoxide poisoning, leave your home and find fresh air immediately then seek medical attention by calling 911.
To know if you or your home have carbon monoxide, there are three steps you can take to reduce your risk of poisoning.
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Install Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Place detectors on every level of your home, especially near sleeping areas, and check them monthly. Carbon monoxide evenly mixes with the oxygen in the air, so install your detectors away from “dead air” corners, 3-5 feet from the floor or close to the breathing height of your family. Carbon monoxide detectors should be replaced every 5-7 years and avoid installing them near appliances or close to windows or doors.
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Test and Maintain Your HVAC System
Have your licensed HVAC technician out to inspect and test your entire HVAC system to ensure safety, optimal output and increase your efficiency. At Bob Boldt HVAC, our team conducts an in-depth safety inspection and diagnostics on your entire heating and cooling system.
Did You Know?
According to the Minnesota Commerce Department, most carbon monoxide poisoning, incidents occur between October and May when furnaces run most often. Make sure you are prepared by scheduling a furnace tune-up before winter or better yet, before you turn your heating system on for the season!
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Check for Visible Signs of a Carbon Monoxide Leak
To see if your furnace has carbon monoxide leaks check for visible signs such as: soot stains on or nearby your furnace, a yellow pilot light, excessive condensation on your unit, a stale or stuffy smell, rust on your units vent pipe, your pilot light blowing out constantly or unusual noises.
Common symptoms that can present as carbon monoxide poisoning are:
- Headaches
- Weakness
- Dizziness
- Nausea or Vomiting
- Shortness of Breath
- Sleepiness
- Confusion
- Blurred Vision
- Loss of Muscle Control or Consciousness
How Does Carbon Monoxide Get Into My Home?
This silent killer can build up in your home due to improper ventilation or incomplete combustion from your fuel-burning systems like furnaces, water heaters or stoves. Always check your systems and appliances by licensed and certified technicians to ensure there are no leaks, blockages or potential risks that can affect you and your family later on.
How Long Does A Furnace Safety Check Take?
When you schedule a furnace safety check with Bob Boldt HVAC, our team conducts an in-depth 30-60 minute combustion and ventilation evaluation on your heating system.
Your Neighborhood’s Trusted HVAC Technicians
Serving Minnesota neighborhoods across Dakota County and throughout the south metro area since 1988, Bob Boldt HVAC offers homeowners the comprehensive furnace tune ups, heating system safety inspections and furnace repairs they trust and rely on.
Whether you require installation, repair, or maintenance, our technicians will assist you with top-quality service at any time of the day or night. Take comfort in knowing your indoor air quality is the best it can be with MOE heating & cooling services Ontario's solution for heating, air conditioning, and ventilation that’s cooler than the rest.
Contact us to schedule a visit. Our qualified team of technicians, are always ready to help you and guide you for heating and cooling issues. Weather you want to replace an old furnace or install a brand new air conditioner, we are here to help you. Our main office is at Kitchener but we can service most of Ontario's cities
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