When the temperature drops in Central New York, most households rely heavily on heating systems to stay comfortable. While your furnace or other fuel-burning appliances keep you warm, they can also pose a hidden danger—carbon monoxide (CO). Known as the “silent killer,” carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can be deadly if not detected early. At Holbrook Heating & Air Conditioning, we believe that keeping your home safe means not only providing dependable heating solutions but also educating you on how to prevent CO-related risks.
What is Carbon Monoxide?
Carbon monoxide is produced when fuel—such as natural gas, propane, wood, or oil—doesn’t burn completely. Furnaces, fireplaces, water heaters, and even gas stoves can release CO if they are damaged, improperly installed, or poorly maintained. Because it has no color, taste, or smell, you may not realize it’s present until it’s too late.
Why It’s So Dangerous
Breathing in carbon monoxide prevents your body from getting enough oxygen. Symptoms of CO poisoning can start subtly, with headache, dizziness, nausea, or fatigue, but can quickly progress to confusion, loss of consciousness, or even death. The risk is especially high in winter when homes are sealed tightly to keep heat in.
Common Sources in Homes
Some of the most common household sources of carbon monoxide include:
Malfunctioning furnaces or boilers
Blocked or damaged flue vents
Gas water heaters
Fireplaces without proper ventilation
Portable generators used indoors
How to Protect Your Home
The best defense against carbon monoxide is prevention. Here’s how you can keep your household safe:
Schedule Regular Heating Maintenance – Annual inspections and tune-ups from a certified technician ensure your furnace is working properly and safely. At Holbrook Heating & Air Conditioning, we thoroughly check for leaks, ventilation issues, and other hazards.
Install CO Detectors – Place carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home, especially near sleeping areas. Test them monthly and replace batteries regularly.
Keep Vents Clear – Make sure furnace, dryer, and fireplace vents are free from snow, ice, or debris that could block airflow.
Use Appliances Safely – Never run gas-powered tools or generators inside your home or garage, and avoid using ovens for heating.
Your Safety is Our Priority
A well-maintained heating system not only keeps your home comfortable but also helps protect your family from dangerous carbon monoxide exposure. Our licensed, NCI-certified technicians have the training and tools to ensure your system operates safely all winter long.
Don’t take chances with your family’s safety. Call us today at (315) 610-7858 to schedule your furnace inspection and keep your home protected from carbon monoxide hazards.