When it comes to the safety of you and your family, learning what can cause a potential accident is the best way to prevent something bad from happening. Carbon monoxide is an incredibly dangerous gas, killing approximately 500 people in the United States every year.
This leaves homeowners wondering if their air conditioners and other appliances can cause carbon monoxide.
In this post, we will answer if carbon monoxide can come from ac or other home appliances. Additionally, we will discuss what you can do to protect and prevent any home carbon monoxide leaks.
Can Air Conditioners Produce Carbon Monoxide?
No, your air conditioner cannot produce carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide is produced by fuel-burning devices and most homes are equipped with electric AC units. Since they are electric, they will not be able to emit carbon monoxide into your home.
However, there are other ways for carbon monoxide to be leaked into your home.
What Produces Carbon Monoxide in a Home?
Even though your AC might be safe, a poorly installed or malfunctioning heating unit can emit dangerous carbon monoxide. This includes your heater, furnace, stove, water heater, or other fuel-burning appliances. Whether gas, charcoal, or woodburning, any appliance or tool that burns fuel can potentially leak CO (Carbon Monoxide) into your home.
Because of this, it is essential to watch your heating units closely and request professional services when things seem off.
What Are The Signs of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning?
Signs of CO poisoning include:
- Headaches and dizziness
- Fainting
- Nausea
- Chest pains
- Abdominal pain
- Shortness of breath and fatigue
- Confusion or memory loss
- Hallucinations
- Depression
- Other flu-like symptoms
If you are experiencing these symptoms, it would be in your best interest to schedule a heating maintenance service as soon as you are able. Even if your symptoms aren’t a result of carbon monoxide poisoning, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
How to Prevent a Carbon Monoxide Leak in Your Home?
- Regular Maintenance – Scheduling regular technician maintenance services can catch problems, such as CO emission before they happen. Our team at Quick Solutions Air Conditioning & Heating offers quality maintenance services with experienced staff, whom you can rely on to catch any major issues.
- Professional Services – One of the leading causes of a heating unit CO poisoning is improper installation or repairs. If you are not experienced with HVAC units but try to handle your services on your own, there is a good chance you could damage your unit or create a leak. The best way to stay safe is to just let a professional handle it.
- Carbon Monoxide Detectors – CO detectors are as important to home safety as smoke detectors. Install a carbon monoxide detector on at least each floor of your building. Most CO poisonings occur when a family is asleep, so installing them in bedrooms is also a good way to stay safe.
- Gas Tools and Cars – If you are running a gas powered tool, such as a barbeque, never do so in your home. Make sure to keep all fuel-burning objects outside when in use. Also, never leave your car on when it is in the garage, even if the garage door is open.
For more information on regular ac maintenance or to schedule air quality testing in Plano, contact Quick Solutions Air Conditioning & Heating today.