Carbon Monoxide (CO) is often referred to as "the silent killer." It is an invisible, odorless, and tasteless gas, making it impossible to detect without the right equipment. This dangerous gas is responsible for many accidental deaths across the country each year. As a trusted, local, and experienced member of the Northwest Florida community, Air & Energy of NWFL wants to ensure every homeowner and business owner understands this serious risk. We are focused on educating our neighbors on the dangers of CO and the simple steps you can take to keep your family and employees safe.
If you are concerned about the safety of your home or business, please do not wait. Your family's or employees' well-being is the number one priority. We are here to help answer your questions and provide trusted, reliable service. Contact the experienced team at Air & Energy of NWFL immediately by calling us at (850) 820-3931 or by completing our secure online form.
What is Carbon Monoxide (CO)?
Carbon Monoxide is a toxic gas produced whenever you burn a fuel. This includes gas, oil, kerosene, wood, or charcoal. It occurs when these fuels are not burned completely, a process known as "incomplete combustion." For example, if your furnace's heating element is dirty or blocked, it can produce CO.
The danger comes from how this gas affects the human body. When you breathe in CO, it quickly replaces the oxygen in your bloodstream. This starves your heart, brain, and other vital organs of the oxygen they need to function. Because you cannot see or smell CO, you may not realize you are in danger until it is too late. It is a critical problem, mainly as we rely on heating systems during cooler times of the year.
Familiar sources of CO in a home or business include:
- Gas furnaces, boilers, and water heaters
- Gas stoves, clothes dryers, and ovens
- Fireplaces and wood-burning stoves
- Blocked chimneys or flues
- Running cars or gasoline-powered equipment in an attached garage
Recognizing the Hidden Threat
The most frightening thing about CO poisoning is that its early symptoms often feel just like the flu, a bad cold, or even food poisoning. People usually assume they are sick, not realizing that a deadly gas is filling their space. Because it is so difficult to recognize, it is essential to be aware of the warning signs.
Symptoms can get worse the longer you are exposed. If you or someone in your home experiences any of these symptoms, especially if they clear up when you go outside, you should take immediate action:
- Headache or dizziness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Confusion or difficulty thinking
- Tiredness or overall weakness
- Chest pain
If you suspect CO poisoning, immediately move to fresh air. Open the windows, leave the building, and call 911 immediately. Never delay seeking medical attention.
Keeping Your Home Safe from CO
Preventing a CO emergency is much easier than dealing with one. As an experienced HVAC company in Pensacola, FL, we know that prevention starts with two key steps: installing reliable alarms and scheduling regular maintenance. Having working CO alarms is the most critical step for detection. These devices should be installed on every level of your home, especially near sleeping areas. You should check the batteries every six months.
The best way to prevent CO from forming in the first place is through professional service. When your heating system or furnace is adequately maintained, it burns fuel cleanly and efficiently, which significantly reduces the risk of CO production. Our skilled technicians inspect your entire system, checking for cracks in the heat exchanger, blockages in the exhaust flue, and other critical safety concerns. These regular check-ups are crucial for both the safety and long-term health of your equipment.
You can take simple steps to protect your family:
- Install Alarms: Place a CO alarm on every level of your home and near all sleeping areas.
- Schedule Maintenance: Have your furnace, water heater, and other fuel-burning appliances professionally inspected every year.
- Check Vents: Ensure all vents, flues, and chimneys are clear of debris, snow, or ice.
- Know Your Air: Schedule a review of your overall indoor air quality to ensure a safe and healthy environment.
Don't take chances with the safety of your property. For reliable, experienced service and to ensure the proper function of your heating system, trust the professionals at Air & Energy of NWFL. We are your dedicated HVAC company in Pensacola, FL. Call us today at (850) 820-3931 or visit our website to schedule your next maintenance appointment.