Heating System Hazards and How to Identify Them
As the weather cools down and heating systems are turned on, homeowners should be aware of the potential hazards of faulty heaters. Some may think that a house fire is the only risk associated with a broken heating system.
While this is among the most dangerous hazards, it certainly is not the only one. HVAC experts have compiled this list of warning signs of lesser-known hazards associated with faulty heaters that homeowners need to know about.
Carbon Monoxide Leaks
Carbon monoxide is a toxic gas to humans that can cause carbon monoxide poisoning. What’s even more dangerous is a possible explosion if the carbon monoxide comes in contact with even the smallest of sparks. A faulty heating system can cause a carbon monoxide leak in the home.
Warning Signs of a Carbon Monoxide Leak:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Confusion
- Fatigue
- Breathing difficulty
- Headaches
- Increased condensation on the inside of the home’s windows
- The pilot light keeps going out
Many heating systems use combustible gas to heat the home. A heat exchanger can leak carbon monoxide into the house when a crack occurs. Keeping the heating system updated on repairs and maintenance can help prevent carbon monoxide leaks.
Still, it is also essential to have carbon monoxide detectors in the home, as the warning signs of a leak are not always obvious.
Mold Growth in Heater or Air Ducts
Inhaling mold particles can be detrimental to health, which is why homeowners should be aware of the warning signs and take steps to prevent mold growth in their HVAC systems.
Some signs of mold growth in the heating system that homeowners need to be aware of include a musty smell coming from the heater or the air vents or visible mold growing around the air vents.
Moreover, the heating system has several moisture-prone areas, including the drain pan, which collects condensation, or in the air ducts where natural condensation could occur. Keeping the drain pan and ductwork clean of dust and debris and doing regular maintenance to prevent leaks is the best way to prevent mold growth.
Furnace Overheating
When homeowners neglect their heating systems by skipping heating maintenance or putting off heating repairs, they put their homes at risk.
A faulty heating system can overheat, potentially leading to a house fire, a carbon monoxide leak, or permanent damage to expensive heating system hardware. In addition to scheduling regular maintenance with an HVAC professional, homeowners should change their furnace filter and other air filters on time (usually every 1-3 months).
Warning signs of an overheating heater include strange noises coming from the heater, a humming noise, or the smell of something burning. When the heater overheats, it can destroy the heating system, but most dangerous of all, it could threaten the family who lives in the home if the furnace bursts into flames.
Heating systems that are adequately maintained are less likely to pose potential hazards to the household.
About Walker Plumbing, Heating & Air
Walker Plumbing, Heating & Air has served Southern Utah for over 20 years with top-of-the-line HVAC services. With comprehensive heating, cooling, and ventilation services from licensed professionals, this HVAC company is one that Utah homeowners can count on. Call them today for heater repair in St. George, UT!
