Most Common HVAC Scares
Halloween is just two days away! While you are enjoying scary movies and all the haunted festivities, make sure you aren’t getting spooked by your HVAC system...
Here are a few of the most common scary HVAC hazards to watch out for this Halloween and throughout the cold weather months.
1. CARBON MONOXIDE
Frighteningly referred to as the silent killer, carbon monoxide is a colorless and odorless gas that can be fatal when inhaled. It can occur in a home when a furnace exchanger is malfunctioning. Symptoms can include nausea, dizziness, headaches, and mental confusion. Don’t take chances with carbon monoxide! If you have a gas furnace, it’s essential to have a carbon monoxide detector in your home. A carbon monoxide detector is the only way to know if your home has carbon monoxide issues. If you suspect a gas leak, call your gas provider or fire department immediately and leave your house until the leak has been safely repaired.
2. OVERHEATING
If you see smoke, sparks or smell something overheating coming from any part of your HVAC system, there is a problem, and potentially something that can start a fire. Turn off your HVAC system immediately at the master switch and call an HVAC professional right away. HVAC professionals can determine what's causing the overheating system so they can make appropriate repairs.
If there is a slight burning smell within the first 24-hours after you start up your furnace for the season this is normal. However, if the odor lingers or becomes stronger, turn off the furnace at the shutoff valve and call for service.
3. MUSTY SMELL
HVAC systems are prone to condensation buildup which can lead to mold and an unpleasant musty smell. As the mold creeps through air ducts, it can impact indoor air quality and cause respiratory issues. If you do smell must, you must call a technician who can quickly and safely clean your air ducts and identify the source of where the mold is growing.
4. CLUTTER If you have a bunch of household clutter around your furnace, you have a potentially dangerous situation on your hands. Clutter in this area can make it difficult to reach your furnace should there be a need to turn it off quickly, and can also result in a fire. Ideally, your furnace area should be always free of clutter and easily accessible.
CONTACT YOUR LOCAL HVAC PROFESSIONALS If you're experiencing any of the "scary" HVAC situations above, Broadway Heating and Cooling is here to help. Our technicians are well-trained and prepared to diagnose and solve a wide range of heating and cooling issues. We also perform routine HVAC checkups to detect and correct minor issues early. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.