Protect Your Ottawa Home: Carbon Monoxide Safety and Furnace Care

What is Carbon Monoxide (CO)?

 
Carbon monoxide (CO) is an invisible, odorless, and colorless gas created by the incomplete combustion of fuels like natural gas, oil, or wood. Common household appliances such as furnaces, boilers, water heaters, and fireplaces can produce CO. Because modern Ottawa homes are often tightly sealed for energy efficiency, carbon monoxide can build up quickly if it’s not properly vented—creating serious health risks.

CO Symptoms & Dangers

CO is known as the “silent killer” because it’s undetectable without an alarm. Early symptoms can mimic the flu, which makes it even more dangerous. Warning signs include:
 
  • Headaches
     
  • Nausea or vomiting
     
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness
     
  • Confusion or fatigue
     
At high levels, carbon monoxide exposure can be deadly. That’s why prevention and detection are critical for every Ottawa household.

Heating Equipment and CO

Furnaces and boilers that aren’t properly maintained pose one of the greatest risks for CO leaks. Older systems, cracked heat exchangers, or blocked chimneys can allow carbon monoxide to escape into your home. According to Carrier, regular furnace tune-ups—including burner cleaning and chimney inspections—are one of the best defenses against CO leaks.

CO Detectors & Installation

Every Ottawa home should be equipped with carbon monoxide detectors. To maximize protection:
 
  • Install CO alarms on every level of your home and near all sleeping areas.
     
  • Test alarms monthly and replace batteries at least once a year.
     
  • Replace detectors according to the manufacturer’s timeline (usually every 5–7 years).
     
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Prevention Tips

The best protection against CO poisoning is prevention. Here’s how:
 
  • Schedule an annual furnace inspection to check burners, vents, and the heat exchanger for cracks.
     
  • Never block furnace or dryer vents outside your home.
     
  • Ensure fireplaces and wood stoves are properly vented.
     
  • Avoid using portable gas heaters indoors unless they are vented to the outside.
     

What to Do If Your CO Alarm Sounds

If your carbon monoxide alarm goes off:

Evacuate immediately. Get everyone outside quickly.

Call emergency services (911).

Do not re-enter until cleared.

Contact Ercan’s HVAC to inspect your furnace or heating system before using it again.
 

Protect Your Family with Ercan’s HVAC

Carbon monoxide safety starts with professional heating maintenance. At Ercan’s Heating & Cooling, we provide annual furnace inspections, emergency repairs, and reliable installation to keep your Ottawa home safe and warm.

Need urgent help with a CO concern or furnace inspection? Contact Ercan’s HVAC today — our technicians are ready to assist 24/7.

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