Preventing Carbon Monoxide Poisoning from Home Heating
Tips from W.H. Riley & Son
The majority of us know that high levels of carbon monoxide can be incredibly dangerous. But some people may not know that home heating equipment, such as furnaces, fireplaces, wood stoves, and space heaters, can produce carbon monoxide if fuel is not burning properly or exhaust is not vented safely.
Using some kind of home heating system is pretty much unavoidable for those of us who live here in the Southeastern Massachusetts area. We don’t have to remind you how cold it can get here in the winter. Therefore, both home and business owners need to know how they can help reduce the risk of carbon monoxide exposure from their heating equipment.
What Kind of Heaters Can Put You at Risk for Carbon Monoxide Poisoning?
Carbon monoxide can be produced by any fuel-burning heating system, including propane- and oil-fired equipment, if combustion or ventilation problems develop.
Using propane to power a heating system is increasingly common and is a popular choice among home and business owners. These systems are known for their efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and the energy independence they provide. While propane-powered systems certainly have their benefits, they need proper ventilation and regular maintenance to operate safely.
Oil-fired heating systems can provide a home or worksite with consistent heat and are known for their durability. However, they should also be inspected regularly. Professional maintenance can help identify combustion or venting problems and address issues such as dirty or clogged burners that may affect both safety and system performance.
Stay One Step Ahead of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Here are some tips from W.H. Riley & Son that can help reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning from your home heating system:
- Install carbon monoxide detectors: Place carbon monoxide alarms on each level of your home and near sleeping areas. Test them regularly and replace batteries and alarms according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
- Know what to do if an alarm sounds: If your carbon monoxide detector goes off, leave the home and move to fresh air. Call 911 or your local emergency services from a safe location, and do not return until emergency personnel say it is safe. Seek medical attention if you experience symptoms or if emergency responders recommend it.
- Schedule annual heating maintenance: Have your heating system inspected by a qualified professional every year. A tune-up typically includes cleaning, inspecting, and testing important components, as well as checking combustion and venting to help ensure the system is operating safely and efficiently.
Heating Equipment and Services from W.H. Riley & Son
If your home here in Southeastern Massachusetts needs new heating equipment, W.H. Riley & Son can help. We will assess your heating needs and help you find the heating system that is best for you and your home. Then our in-house service technicians can handle the initial installation, as well as future service and repairs.
W.H. Riley & Son can install both oil and propane heating systems, including furnaces, boilers, and space heaters. We also run efficiency tests to help make sure you are getting the most out of your heating equipment.
Additionally, we deliver propane, diesel, kerosene, and Bioheat Plus® heating oil.
Contact W.H. Riley & Son today to learn more about the heating equipment and heating services we provide throughout Southeastern Massachusetts.