Keep the Warmth Flowing: Show Some Love to Your Furnace Venting This Valentine’s Day!
Keeping your furnace running smoothly can not only make a big difference in how efficiently it warms your home, but also help keep you and your loved ones safer from carbon monoxide and even the risk of a disastrous fire!
Read on to learn more about how you can spot furnace venting issues, how to tackle them when they arise, and how to properly care for your furnace to prevent them in the future.
How You Can Spot Incorrect Furnace Ventilation
The best way to prevent serious hazards, aside from keeping up with your regular maintenance, is by knowing what to look for. Here are 5 signs that your furnace may not be venting properly:
Moisture
Excess condensation and increased moisture in your home can be a sign of incorrect furnace venting. When your furnace is having venting troubles it can cause fumes to leak into your space creating excess moisture on surfaces like your windows. This moisture is most likely to be noticeable in the morning as well as when your heating is first turned on.
Flue Liner Damage
Damaged flue liners can wreak all kinds of havoc. One major issue being carbon monoxide leakage. A cracked liner can create serious health hazards in your home. If you notice or suspect flue liner damage, it is crucial that you schedule an inspection or repair with a chimney professional as soon as possible.
Backdraft
If your furnace is not venting properly, you may likely experience a backdraft in your home. This is when exhaust fumes are pulled back into the home rather than escaping out like they are supposed to. Obstructions, incorrect flue size, and negative air pressure are all common causes of a backdraft.
Rusted Grillwork
As we mentioned above, improper ventilation can draw more moisture into the home, leading to condensation. The furnace itself is no exception. Noticing rust on the grillwork of your furnace is a sign of excess moisture, often caused by improper ventilation.
Tackling Furnace Ventilation Issues
When a ventilation issue is spotted, it’s best to call a trusted and experienced professional in your area to handle repairs as quickly as possible. Limit the use of your unit while ventilation issues are present to avoid possible danger. Call your local chimney sweep to schedule an inspection and repair before the problem escalates.
Avoiding Future Trouble
Keep up with Inspections and Maintenance
The best solution for any problem? Prevention! Having your furnace inspected regularly will ensure that any issues are spotted and resolved before they are able to escalate.
Install a Carbon Monoxide Detector
As a safety precaution, your space should have a functioning carbon monoxide detector to protect your and your family in the case of a carbon monoxide leak from your furnace.
Inhaling carbon monoxide can be very dangerous and even fatal. Be aware of the signs of carbon monoxide poisoning and install a CO detector to keep your space safer.
Take a Look
Checking up on your unit every few weeks is a good way to ensure there are no issues. Yearly professional inspections are critical but checking out your furnace throughout the year can also help ensure there are no ventilation troubles headed your way.
Chimney Specialists Inc. Is Here for You!
Chimney trouble in paradise? Never fear, the pros are here. Give us a call or contact us online today to schedule your inspections, cleanings, repairs, and more!