There are a number of reasons why a yearly inspection of your gas furnace is beneficial, but perhaps the most crucial is preventing a carbon monoxide leak. Carbon monoxide is produced whenever a fossil fuel is burned. When your furnace is functioning properly, the carbon monoxide it creates is safely carried out of your home. Unfortunately, a leak can occur when your furnace is damaged. Calling a furnace repair company and scheduling an inspection every year can alert you to a serious malfunction before it turns into a safety hazard.

A malfunctioning heat exchanger is one of the most common reasons a gas furnace develops a carbon monoxide leak. In simple terms, a heat exchanger is the part of your furnace that heats the air. The metal your heat exchanger is made of expands and contracts every time your furnace heats up and cools down. After years of use, the expansion and contraction cycle can lead to a crack in your heat exchanger, which will cause carbon monoxide to seep into your home. An inspection performed by a skilled HVAC technician is the only way to know whether the heat exchanger in your furnace is functioning properly.

A well maintained furnace is key to preventing a carbon monoxide leak in your home. While scheduling a yearly inspection at the beginning of the heating season is crucial, it’s also important to pay close attention to your furnace’s performance throughout the winter. If you notice odd noises or a drop in efficiency, calling an HVAC professional is highly recommended. While proper upkeep can help prevent a leak, installing carbon monoxide detectors in your home can save you and your family if the unthinkable does occur.

If you would like to schedule an inspection or you’re concerned your furnace is malfunctioning, please contact us today and we’ll be happy to help keep your family safe this heating season.