Installing a Carbon Monoxide DetectorWinter is the time when the public turns attention to the dangers of carbon monoxide, but did you know that it’s a threat all year long? This colorless, odorless and tasteless gas is produced by appliances and other devices that generate fumes as they burn fuel. Items such as your furnace, water heater, stove, space heaters, charcoal grill and gas dryer can be sources of carbon monoxide in your home. If these items are not in good working order, or if proper ventilation is an issue, the risk increases of carbon monoxide exposure.

WebMD list potential signs and symptoms of carbon monoxide as:

  • Dull headache
  • Weakness
  • Dizziness
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Shortness of breath
  • Confusion
  • Blurred vision
  • Loss of consciousness

Carbon monoxide poisoning can be especially dangerous for people who are sleeping as the fumes could become fatal before the problem is detected.

Now is the time to have our HVAC technicians inspect your heating system before the cold mid-Atlantic winter arrives. Our technicians can examine all aspects of your heating system to ensure that it is functioning properly. While home heating systems represent only 5% of potential carbon monoxide sources, it is still important to schedule annual maintenance visits from B.M.C/Clower.

What other precautions can you take against carbon monoxide in your home?

  • Install and test a carbon monoxide and smoke detector in your home.
  • Avoid closed spaces, such as your garage, when burning a charcoal grill.
  • Never lear your car running in a closed garage, including warming it up during our cold Maryland winters
  • Ensure you use your gasoline or diesel powered generator outdoors.
  • Have your fireplace inspected before winter arrives so that any blockage can be removed (i.e. limbs, bird nests, etc.)

As always, if you live in Montgomery County, Calvert County or the DC Metro area and you have a need for service for any part of your home heating system, please don’t hesitate to contact B.M.C/Clower. We promise prompt arrival, professional service and guaranteed results.