By Barbara Lehrer
Real Talk
Barbara Lehrer
Many homeowners install carbon monoxide detectors on the main living level and in the basement, then assume they are fully protected. As long as the device is powered, whether plugged in or operated by battery, it is often considered sufficient.
However, this sense of security can be misleading, particularly in homes with older heating systems. Aging furnaces and related mechanical systems can emit low levels of carbon monoxide over time. Recent findings suggest that symptoms such as morning headaches, dizziness, nausea or feeling noticeably better after leaving the home may be linked to undetected CO exposure.
Several common household systems have the potential to produce carbon monoxide, including boilers, forced air furnaces, hot water heaters, heat pump systems (via coil-based heat exchangers) and radiant heating systems connected to boilers.
While owning an older furnace is not inherently unsafe, it does increase the importance of proper monitoring. A cracked or compromised heat exchanger – an essential component that transfers heat without allowing gases to mix – can allow exhaust gases, including carbon monoxide, to enter the living space.
The heat exchanger plays a critical role in a heating system by transferring heat from combustion gases to air or water without direct contact. When functioning properly, it safely contains harmful gases. However, any failure or deterioration can lead to dangerous leaks, underscoring the need for regular inspection.
Carbon monoxide exposure often presents first during overnight hours, making detector placement especially important. At a minimum, detectors should be installed in or near bedrooms and near the furnace or primary heating system.
Modern detector options now include both standard alarms and low-level monitors. While standard alarms meet code requirements, low-level monitors can detect early-stage exposure before it reaches critical levels, and many homeowners choose a combination system for added protection.
Even well-maintained systems can present unexpected risks. In my own case, a clogged chimney flue triggered the furnace alarm. Neither the furnace maintenance man nor the fireplace maintenance person included a four-foot pipe that went from the forced air furnace in the basement to the wall, where it was cemented so there were no air openings. The pipe was closed in well on the wall, but there was an accumulation of hair from my dogs on the inside.
Luckily, we were all fine. We were away and the animals were checked. It was very scary. The Orange Fire Department showed up with our friend who was watching the house.
Who knows what would have happened to the dog and cat – or to us if we were home. Situations like this highlight how easily hidden issues can develop, even in relatively newer systems.
Maintaining a safe home environment doesn’t require complex measures, but it does require consistency. Homeowners should schedule annual furnace and system inspections, ensure heat exchangers are checked regularly, upgrade carbon monoxide detectors as technology improves, consider combination detectors with low-level monitoring and pay attention to subtle health symptoms that may indicate exposure. These precautions are especially critical for households with young children, elderly residents or pets.
Proactive maintenance and updated carbon monoxide detection technology can make a significant difference. Stay safe, stay informed and enjoy the season ahead.
If you need more information on these issues, email Barbara.Lehrer@cbmoves.com.