Your Furnace and Carbon Monoxide Concerns

Carbon Monoxide poisoning from disrepair or modified furnaces increases as weather gets cooler.

"Three family members were taken to a hospital Thursday morning after becoming ill inhaling carbon monoxide. ... AFD officials inspected the house and are blaming the carbon monoxide leak on an improper modification to the furnace." - Albuquerque - Carbon Monoxide sends three to hospital 10/27/2005

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a tasteless, odorless and colorless gas that is difficult to detect but can cause organ damage and even death if breathed in.

Steps for precautions

• Fuel-burning furnace and other appliances should be checked regularly.
• Clean flues and Vents for blockage so gases can escape.
• Vent fumes to the outside if possible.

Symptoms of Carbon monoxide poisoning

• At low concentrations fatigue is a sign in healthy people and chest pain is common for those with heart disease
• At higher concentrations dizziness, headaches and impaired vision and coordination, confusion and nausea.
• Flu like symptoms that if you leave the house will clear up.
• At high levels of CO exposure it can be fatal.

If poisoning is suspected
Get out of the house and call the Fire Department with your suspect of Carbon Monoxide.  If possible leave doors and windows open as you leave the house.  Contact your doctor immediately and get your family checked out at the hospital.


** If your furnace has a High-Temperature, Plastic Vent (HTPV), call 800-758-3688 to verify your system is not subject to recall.