• Phone(847) 588-2533
  • Address200 Applebee St Suite 207, Barrington, IL 60010
  • Open Hours24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year
  • Phone(847) 588-2533
  • Address200 Applebee St Suite 207, Barrington, IL 60010
  • Open Hours24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year

A Few Carbon Monoxide Warnings for the Winter

Back in August we wrote a post about how important it is for you to have carbon monoxide detectors installed for your house if you use natural gas. As we’re getting closer and closer to winter and can expect to see even more use from our natural gas furnaces, it’s a good time to bring up a few important reminders about the dangers of carbon monoxide and how to keep your family safe through the season.

Carbon monoxide replacement

Both smoke and carbon monoxide detectors come with a 7-year Underwriters Laboratory approval rating. If you’ve had your CO detectors for more than 7 years, call us to have them replaced so you can continue to protect your loved ones.

Know what to do when a CO detector goes off

Does your family have a plan in case a CO detector goes off? Make sure that everyone knows not to ignore it. Open up windows and exit the house. If anyone in your family is showing signs of CO poisoning (nausea, shortness of breath, headaches, vomiting) call 9-1-1 immediately. Do not enter your home again until emergency services have indicated it is safe.

Make sure the furnace is annually inspected

A gas furnace must have an inspection from a professional in fall to see that it is operating safely. These inspections check on the heat exchanger for cracks (a common source of carbon monoxide leakage) and leaks in the gas line. You’ll enjoy much greater peace of mind with this inspection taken care of before winter starts.

Listen for clicking noises from the furnace

One of the warnings that a furnace has a cracked heat exchanger, which can lead to a CO danger, is odd clicking noises that sounds after the blower fan shuts off. If you hear this, turn off the furnace and the gas, and then call for our repair technicians to look into the problem.

Brilliant Home Services serves Glenview, IL and the rest of Chicagoland.