While today’s heating and cooling systems are engineered for maximum safety and reliability, it’s still a good idea to be aware of HVAC danger signs. Furnaces and air conditioners incorporate a number of potentially dangerous elements such as flammable natural gas, high operating temperatures, pressurized refrigerant, toxic exhaust fumes and high-voltage electricity, all of which could lead to HVAC danger signs.
Properly maintained, today’s HVAC units are designed to minimize these factors and keep your family both safe and comfortable. To be sure, stay informed about hazards by familiarizing yourself with a few HVAC danger signs.
- Burning odor. Any burning odors associated with HVAC units or smells of something overheating, such as electrical wiring or components shorting out, should prompt you to shut down the furnace or air conditioner immediately. Contact your HVAC contractor and get it checked out.
- Smell of natural gas. The pungent, “rotten egg” odor of leaking natural gas is a critical warning sign that must not be ignored. Do not try to track down its source yourself. Get everyone out of the house immediately, then call the fire department or your local gas company.
- Carbon monoxide. Colorless and odorless, carbon monoxide gas (CO) is a byproduct of combustion in various units, including the common gas-fired home furnace. CO is deadly and presents no warning signs. Every house should have carbon monoxide detectors on each floor and outside every bedroom. Change the batteries according to the manufacturer’s instructions and test the units monthly.
- Moldy odors. A central air conditioner generates many gallons of water per day. Clogs in the AC condensate drain system can spawn the chronic growth of toxic mold. Microscopic airborne spores released by these fungus types may trigger allergic responses in many individuals. Inspection and cleaning of the AC drip pan and drain system is part of annual preventative maintenance by a qualified HVAC contractor.
In both the cooling and heating seasons, stay aware of any HVAC danger signs that may occur. Ask the professionals at Ace Hardware Home Services for more information.
