Know the Symptoms of HVAC Problems
Carbon monoxide leaks. Mold growth. Overheating furnaces. Each of these things points to an underlying problem with the home’s heating and cooling system. If promptly addressed, homeowners can face the new season without worrying about their unit breaking down. If ignored, however, homeowners risk damage to their health and the HVAC system’s operations.
Below, homeowners can read more about the signs of HVAC problems and how they can address them. They should consider reaching out to an HVAC specialist in their area for more information.
A Carbon Monoxide Leak
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) describes carbon monoxide as an odorless, colorless gas. Anytime a furnace burns fossil fuels, it creates carbon monoxide. In small amounts, this isn’t usually a problem. However, once the gas reaches a certain threshold, it can cause serious health ailments––even death.
Signs of carbon monoxide poisoning include:
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Dizziness
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Weakness
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Nausea
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Chest pain
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Confusion
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Vomiting
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Loss of consciousness
But if the gas is odorless and colorless, how can one detect it? Homeowners should install carbon monoxide detectors in their homes. These devices rely on sensors that measure excessive amounts of carbon monoxide in the home. If the detector alerts homeowners to dangerous carbon monoxide levels, they should evaluate the home and call a professional.
Mold Growth
Mold loves dark, moist areas––similar to the conditions surrounding many HVAC units. Mold is also a fast traveler. It can start near an HVAC system, then migrate into the home’s air ducts. Then, homeowners could suffer respiratory ailments by breathing in the spores. Mold comes in many colors and sizes, ranging from black spots to fuzzy green dots. A musty odor often accompanies them.
Healthline notes that some symptoms of mold exposure include:
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Coughing
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Sneezing
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Sore throat
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A rash
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Chest pain
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Headaches
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Wheezing
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Eye irritation
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Congestion
Mold exposure is dangerous, even to those in perfect health. If one notices mold in their home’s air ducts, they should call a specialist to mediate the problem.
An Overheating Furnace
An overheating furnace can lead to a fire, which can cause injuries, property damage, and even death. This makes it vital to understand the signs of a malfunctioning heater––so one can avoid furnace fires.
Some signs of an overheating furnace include:
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A burning smell comes from the heater when it kicks on.
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Humming noises coming from the unit.
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The furnace turns off, and it won’t turn back on again.
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Smoke is coming from the unit.
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The furnace feels hotter than usual to the touch.
A homeowner can prevent their furnace from overheating by replacing the HVAC system’s air filter once every three months. Per EnergyStar, one should replace the filter more often if they have pets or more than three people in their household. Air filters let the furnace breathe. A clogged air filter hinders airflow and prevents heat from leaving the system.
About Dutch Enterprises
Dutch Enterprises calls itself “the rapid repair team.” It offers expert workmanship, trustworthy repairs, and 100 percent customer satisfaction. If one notices any symptoms on the list above, one should call for HVAC service in Cape Girardeau, MO.
