For those who rely on a furnace or other appliances that use gas or fire for heating, smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are an essential safety measure. Carbon monoxide leaks are a surprisingly common problem, sending 20,000 people to the emergency room each year and resulting in 400 deaths. And it's all the more dangerous for being colorless and odorless. The guide below explains more about these risks and why you should take preventive measures.

A Guide to Carbon Monoxide Leaks

What Is Carbon Monoxide?

Carbon monoxide is a gas made up of one carbon and one oxygen atom. When inhaled, it takes the place of oxygen in the blood, thus depriving your organs and tissues of air. This reduced access to oxygen causes many of the same signs as suffocation, including dizziness, headaches, and lethargy at first, followed by mental confusion and blurred vision. Eventually, with enough exposure, you will lose consciousness and, possibly, die.

Where Does It Come From?

Carbon monoxide is created when any fuel, including gas, oil, coal, or wood, fails to burn completely. Regular maintenance of your furnace or water heater can keep these appliances burning cleanly, but may not always be enough.

How a CO Detector Helps

Using an internal sensor, your carbon monoxide detector samples the air in your home, searching for CO. When found in dangerous levels, it's alarm will sound loudly enough to wake your family from sleep so you can get outside into the fresh air. It can be built into your smoke detector or be a separate unit placed near your furnace.

If you are worried about your furnace leaking carbon monoxide, contact Absolute Comfort Heating And Air Conditioning in Lincoln, NE, to perform an inspection. For over 20 years, they have provided Lancaster County with fast, reliable, skilled HVAC installation and repairs. To check out their full list of services, head to their website. Or schedule a visit today by calling (402) 430-3959.