Furnace Maintenance by Sanborn’s Can Save Lives

Sanborn’s Air Conditioning and Heating has been telling you for years about the advantages of heating system tune-ups and regular maintenance. Your system operates more efficiently and lasts longer. But that’s not all. Routine maintenance and inspections might save the lives of you and your family.
Did you know carbon monoxide poisoning kills more than 400 people each year? It can be caused by any device that burns fuel whether it’s wood, natural gas, kerosene, coal, etc. When our technicians perform furnace maintenance, they will check for a cracked heat exchanger. It is one of the most common causes of CO leaks. It allows the odorless gas to escape into the home rather than going up the flue. We will do one of three heat exchanger inspections, depending on the furnace. We will either remove the heat exchanger completely for a visual inspection, a hydroscan, or a camera inspection.

An Important Side-Note ★     No matter what an HVAC technician tells you, NEVER use a furnace with a cracked heat exchanger. ★     Their tests may indicate no carbon monoxide is present at that moment and tell you it’s safe, but a cracked exchanger can start leaking at any time. ★     Do not take chances with this silent killer.

Sanborn’s also urges you to install carbon monoxide detectors in your home. For true safety, a single CO detector really isn’t enough. The experts recommend having one on every floor of your home. Put one close to every sleeping area so the alarm can be heard clearly, and a CO detector close to the door that goes to your attached garage. A running car can easily fill the house with carbon monoxide.
Often-times the warning signs of CO poisoning are subtle and you don’t even realize what’s happening. According to the Mayo Clinic, these are some symptoms you should be alert for:

• Dull headache
• Weakness
• Dizziness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Shortness of breath
• Confusion
• Blurred vision
• Loss of consciousness

If you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning, do not take chances. The condition is life-threatening and you should treat it as an emergency. Get the victim into fresh air and get immediate medical care.
Protect your family’s safety. Call Sanborn’s Air Conditioning & Heating now to schedule your heating system maintenance and carbon monoxide test. If your home doesn’t have CO detectors, talk with us about installing them. Sanborn’s, 5-Star Comfort (and safety) for 4 Generations.