The expectation for homeowners during winter is simple: turn on the heat, sleep comfortably, and stay safe. Unfortunately, carbon monoxide can disrupt that sense of security. Homeowners in Herrin, IL, know how cold winter nights can get, which often leads to furnaces running longer and harder. While your heating system is one of the most important appliances in your home, it can also be one of the most dangerous if problems go unnoticed. At One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning®, we help homeowners stay warm without compromising safety.

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a gas you cannot see, smell, or taste, which is why it is often called the “silent killer.” When fuels like natural gas, propane, or oil do not burn completely, carbon monoxide is produced. Under normal conditions, those gases are safely vented outdoors. When combustion or venting is disrupted, CO can build up inside the home. The good news is that most carbon monoxide risks are preventable with the right steps.

1. Schedule a Professional Safety Inspection

The most reliable way to prevent carbon monoxide leaks is through a professional furnace inspection. Any appliance that burns fuel carries the potential to produce CO if combustion or venting is compromised. Many issues that affect combustion develop gradually and are not visible to homeowners.

During a professional inspection, a trained technician evaluates critical components such as burners, heat exchangers, venting systems, and safety controls. Regular maintenance not only helps your furnace operate efficiently, but it also plays a major role in keeping your household safe. Scheduling professional service is the most effective way to reduce the risk of a dangerous CO situation.

2. Install and Test Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Carbon monoxide detectors are similar in size and cost to smoke detectors, and combination units are widely available. If your home contains any fuel-burning appliance, CO detectors are essential. Even a well-functioning furnace today could develop a problem tomorrow, and detectors provide critical early warning.

Detectors should be tested regularly using the test button, and batteries should be replaced as needed. Many manufacturers recommend replacing CO detectors every 5 to 10 years, depending on the model. Always check the manufacturer’s guidelines to ensure your detectors remain reliable.

3. Keep the Area Around Your Furnace Clear

It is common for homeowners to use furnace rooms for storage, but clutter near heating equipment can create safety risks. Furnaces require adequate airflow to support proper combustion. Restricting airflow can lead to incomplete combustion and increased carbon monoxide production.

As a general rule, maintain clear space around your furnace based on manufacturer-recommended clearances, often around three feet. This “breathing zone” helps ensure proper airflow and reduces fire and CO risks. Avoid storing flammable materials, household chemicals, or cleaning products near the furnace, as they can create additional hazards.

4. Watch for Warning Signs of a Cracked Heat Exchanger

The heat exchanger separates combustion gases from the air that circulates through your home. A cracked heat exchanger is one of the most serious furnace safety issues and a common cause of carbon monoxide leaks. Detecting cracks requires professional tools and expertise, which is why routine inspections are so important.

Homeowners can still watch for general warning signs. A steady blue burner flame usually indicates proper combustion. Yellow or orange flames, excessive soot, or unusual furnace behavior can signal combustion problems that deserve immediate professional attention. These observations are not a diagnosis, but they are a reason to call for service promptly.

5. Never Ignore Physical Symptoms

Carbon monoxide exposure often causes symptoms that resemble common illnesses, making it easy to overlook. Possible symptoms include:

  • Headaches or dizziness
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Shortness of breath
  • Unusual fatigue or weakness
  • Mental confusion or blurred vision

If symptoms improve when you leave the home and return when you go back inside, carbon monoxide may be the cause. If multiple people or pets experience symptoms at the same time, leave the home immediately and contact emergency services and a qualified HVAC professional.

6. Ensure Proper Ventilation of Exterior Flues

Your furnace depends on vent pipes or a chimney to carry exhaust gases outdoors. In winter, snow, ice, or debris can block these vents, causing exhaust to back up into the home. Periodic visual checks of exterior vent openings can help ensure they remain clear.

High-efficiency furnaces often vent through plastic pipes on the side of the home. Make sure landscaping, snow buildup, or animal nests are not blocking these exhaust points. Avoid attempting to disassemble venting components yourself. If you suspect a blockage or notice changes in furnace operation, schedule professional service right away.

The Right Team for the Job

At One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning®, we are proud to serve homeowners in Herrin, IL, with dependable furnace inspections, repairs, and replacements. Our goal is to help you stay warm while protecting your household from carbon monoxide risks. We also provide year-round HVAC services, including air conditioning maintenance and system upgrades.

Contact One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning® today to learn more about carbon monoxide safety and to schedule professional heating service for your home.