Does oil furnace produce carbon monoxide? As a homeowner, you want to do everything you can to keep your family safe. That’s why it’s essential to be informed about the possible dangers in your home—including carbon monoxide. Many people know that gas furnaces can produce carbon monoxide, but did you know that oil furnaces can produce it too?
All combustion appliances, including oil furnaces, have the potential to produce carbon monoxide. However, properly maintained and ventilated oil furnaces pose minimal risk to homeowners. In this blog post, we’ll discuss how oil furnaces produce carbon monoxide and what you can do to keep your family safe.
What is an Oil Furnace, and How Does It Work?
An oil furnace is a home heating system that utilizes oil as its fuel source. These types of furnaces are less used than gas furnaces, but they work similarly. Both furnaces have a burner that ignites the fuel and a heat exchanger that transfers heat from the burning fuel to the air.
An oil furnace burns fuel oil to generate heat. The heat is then distributed throughout the home via ducts and vents. While oil furnaces are generally very safe, they can produce carbon monoxide if they are not properly maintained or if there is a problem with the venting system.
What is Carbon Monoxide?
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colourless, odourless, tasteless gas produced when fossil fuels are burned. When inhaled, CO interferes with the blood’s ability to carry oxygen to the body’s organs and tissues. Low levels of CO can cause headaches, dizziness, nausea, and fatigue. High levels can lead to brain damage, heart damage, and even death.
How Oil Furnaces Produce Carbon Monoxide
Oil furnaces produce carbon monoxide gas when they are not functioning correctly. An oil furnace not burning fuel properly can cause a dangerous carbon monoxide gas build-up. It can happen for several reasons, including a dirty burner or a faulty flue.
If you think your oil furnace may not be burning fuel properly, it’s essential to have it inspected by a professional. Expert technicians will be able to determine whether or not your furnace is safe to use and make any necessary repairs.
How Does Carbon Monoxide Get Into the Home?
If an oil furnace is not adequately maintained or ventilated, CO can build up in the home. Cracks or holes in the furnace’s heat exchanger can also allow CO to escape into the house. Poorly ventilated chimneys or flues can cause CO to back into the home.
Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
The symptoms of CO poisoning are similar to those of the flu: headaches, dizziness, nausea, and fatigue. However, these symptoms will go away when you leave the house and return when you come back home. If you suspect you may be experiencing CO poisoning, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately and leave your home until it has been deemed safe by a professional.
Preventing Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in Your Home
The best way to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning in your home is to install a carbon monoxide detector. These devices are relatively inexpensive and can be found at most hardware stores. It’s essential to place the detector near the oil furnace to sound an alarm if there is a carbon monoxide gas build-up.
Another way to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning is to have your oil furnace regularly inspected by a professional. They will be able to identify potential safety hazards and make any necessary repairs before they become serious problems.
Conclusion
While oil furnaces are generally very safe, they can produce carbon monoxide if they are not properly maintained or if there is a problem with the venting system. If you suspect that you or someone in your home has been exposed to carbon monoxide, get to fresh air immediately and call 911. By being aware of the dangers of carbon monoxide and taking steps to protect yourself and your family, you can help prevent tragedies from occurring in your home.
