The cold of winter is right around the corner, with samples of its chill coming sporadically this time of year prompting us to close and seal the windows and crank the furnace. But at the same time you are trying to stay comfortable indoors, you could be letting in an invisible killer.
Family Danz Heating & Cooling doesn’t want you to be afraid of turning on the heat during the cold in the Capital District of New York State, but you should be aware of the possibility that your heating system may create a carbon monoxide hazard. Some 175 Americans die every year from CO poisoning when carbon monoxide escapes from malfunctioning fuel-burning furnaces, room heaters, ranges, water heaters, and other machinery. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say several thousand people are seen in emergency rooms annually after they’ve become sick from CO exposure.
They likely never saw it coming — carbon monoxide is odorless and colorless, so unless they had a carbon monoxide detector (as everyone should) they wouldn’t know it was there until the symptoms of CO poisoning set in.
The early signs are pretty much similar to the flu, including nausea, headache, disorientation, and shortness of breath. The only real difference is the lack of a fever, so many folks tend to ignore those symptoms as just the beginning of an illness. But as the exposure increases, symptoms become more severe and include vomiting, loss of coordination, and general confusion. At this stage, the victim can be so disoriented he or she may not be able to escape, and they can fall into unconsciousness. If the exposure continues, the breathing of CO fumes can cause death.
To prevent CO poisoning, Family Danz’ trained technicians will inspect your heating system for any sign of a potential hazard. We will spot any trouble areas and, with your approval, fix the problem before it becomes life threatening.
Our inspection will give you the peace of mind for a good night sleep, no matter how buttoned up your home is from the cold. You’ll stay warm and stay safe, just the way your home should be.
Family Danz Heating & Cooling is a full-service heating and air conditioning contractor, offering sales and service all through the Capital District of New York State. If you would like more information on any of our services, call us today at.