Signs of Heating System Dangers and How to Prevent Them
A malfunctioning heating system is more than just an inconvenience—it can pose significant risks to health, safety, and the home. A faulty heater may lead to issues like carbon monoxide leaks, mold growth, and overheating, which can even be a fire hazard. Recognizing the signs of these problems is crucial for addressing them before they escalate.
This blog post will discuss the risks of a faulty heater, signs that can indicate them, and ways that homeowners can help prevent them to keep their homes and families safe and healthy.
Carbon Monoxide Leaks
A carbon monoxide leak is one of the most dangerous hazards of a faulty heater or furnace. A carbon monoxide leak can occur when a furnace burns fuel inefficiently due to a crack in the heat exchanger or poor ventilation.
This odorless, colorless gas can quickly build up in the home, leading to severe health risks. Some symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include headaches, dizziness, nausea, confusion, difficulty breathing, and more. Signs of a carbon monoxide leak can include a yellow pilot light instead of its normal blue or excessive condensation on windows near the furnace.
Installing a carbon monoxide detector near sleeping areas and heating systems is also an important safety measure to alert the household to a carbon monoxide leak so they can evacuate and call for help quickly. Regular heating maintenance and inspections can help prevent carbon monoxide leaks and confirm that the heater operates safely.
Mold Growth
A lesser-known hazard of a faulty heating system is mold growth since most people associate mold with a water leak. Mold can form when moisture accumulates in the heating system or ductwork, often due to inadequate ventilation, clogged filters, or other issues. Once mold infiltrates the air ducts, it can spread throughout the home, posing health risks such as respiratory issues, worsened allergies, and asthma.
Signs of mold growth include a persistent musty odor, visible mold near vents or other parts of the system, and negative health symptoms. To prevent mold growth in the heating system and the health issues it can cause, homeowners should replace the furnace filter and air filters regularly and schedule routine heating maintenance to identify and address potential moisture issues early on.
Overheating Furnaces and Heaters Are a Fire Hazard
An overheating furnace or heater is also a significant risk that can lead to carbon monoxide leaks, fires, or damage to the system itself. Overheating often results from restricted airflow caused by dirty air filters, blockages, or mechanical failures.
Telltale signs of overheating include a burning smell, humming or unusual noises, or the furnace shutting off unexpectedly. Ways to help prevent overheating also include routinely changing air filters and scheduling routine heating maintenance with a professional. Heater maintenance should be done annually, while air filter replacement is needed more often, typically at least every three months.
About AirLux Heating & Cooling
AirLux Heating & Cooling is a reliable heating, AC, and indoor air quality company serving Niles, MI, and the surrounding areas. They offer flat-rate pricing, text notifications, and a beneficial maintenance plan. Call them for heating repair and maintenance services in Niles, MI.
