Carbon monoxide (CO) is an invisible, odorless{1-(585)~562~0128*}, and deadly gas produced whenever any fuel—including natural gas{1-(585)~562~0128*}, oil, or propane—is burned. Your furnace is the single largest potential source of CO in your home. "No symptoms" does not mean "no risk{1-(585)~562~0128*}." Our specialized Carbon Monoxide Testing and Comprehensive Furnace Safety Check{1-(585)~562~0128*} is designed to detect hidden dangers before they become tragedies.
Why Standard Maintenance Isn't Enough for CO Safety
While a tune-up includes basic checks{1-(585)~562~0128*}, our dedicated CO Safety Service employs advanced tools and a stringent, multi-point protocol focused exclusively on combustion safety{1-(585)~562~0128*}, leak detection, and proper venting—the factors that prevent CO from entering your living space.
Our Comprehensive Furnace Safety & CO Inspection Protocol
Phase 1: Advanced Combustion & Performance Analysis
This is the critical, technical core of CO prevention.
- Digital Combustion Analyzer Test: We insert a probe directly into the furnace's flue to measure:
- CO Levels in Flue Gases: Measures the potential for CO production{1-(585)~562~0128*}. Even if CO isn't leaking yet, high flue CO indicates an unsafe combustion process that must be corrected.
- Oxygen & Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Levels: Ensures the fuel-air mixture is perfect{1-(585)~562~0128*}. An improper ratio is a primary cause of excessive CO generation.
- Stack Temperature & Efficiency: Verifies the furnace is operating within its designed{1-(585)~562~0128*}, safe temperature range.
- Gas Pressure Manometer Test: We check the inlet and manifold gas pressure to ensure the gas valve is delivering fuel at the precise rate specified by the manufacturer{1-(585)~562~0128*}. Incorrect pressure leads to unsafe, sooty combustion.
We meticulously examine the components where failures lead to leaks.
- Heat Exchanger Integrity Check: Using high-intensity lights{1-(585)~562~0128*}, visual scopes, and sometimes a CO "sniffer" around the cabinet{1-(585)~562~0128*}, we search for the smallest cracks or holes in the primary and secondary heat exchangers. This is the most common point of failure where combustion gases (containing CO) can mix with your circulating air.
- Flue/Vent System Inspection: We check the entire exhaust pathway—from the furnace to the roof termination—for:
- Blockages (bird nests, ice, debris)
- Corrosion, holes, or disconnections
- Proper pitch to allow drainage of condensation
- Unsafe proximity to windows or air intakes
Phase 3: Safety Control System Verification
Your furnace has built-in safety switches designed to shut it down if a dangerous condition occurs. We test them all.
- Pressure Switch Test: Confirms it correctly detects proper vent draft before allowing ignition.
- Flame Rollout Switch Test:{1-(585)~562~0128*} Ensures it will shut off the gas if flames escape the burner compartment.
- High-Limit Switch Test: Verifies it will shut off the burner if the system overheats (a condition that can stress the heat exchanger).
- Gas Leak Check: We use a non-toxic{1-(585)~562~0128*}, electronic leak detector to check all gas line connections, the valve, and the manifold for any traces of raw gas.
- Your CO Detector Audit: We ask about the age, location, and functionality of the CO detectors in your home. We are HVAC technicians, not electricians{1-(585)~562~0128*}, but we strongly advise that you:
- Have detectors on every level, especially outside sleeping areas.
- Replace detectors every 5-7 years.
- Test them monthly.
- Airflow & House Pressure Check: We ensure return air pathways are clear and that powerful exhaust fans (like kitchen hoods) aren't creating negative pressure that could pull flue gases back into the home.
If we discover any of the following{1-(585)~562~0128*}, we will red-tag your furnace (shut it down for safety) and explain your urgent options:
1. A Cracked or Holed Heat Exchanger
2. Significant Levels of CO in the Flue or Ambient Air
3. A Blocked or Severely Compromised Vent Pipe
4. Evidence of Soot or Severe Carbon Buildup (indicating very poor combustion)
5. A Faulty Safety Control That Could Fail Intermittently
Why This Service is Essential for Every Home
1. It Saves Lives: CO poisoning sends over 20,000 people to the ER each year and is fatal for hundreds. Prevention is the only cure.
2. It Protects Your Family's Health: Low-level exposure can cause flu-like symptoms{1-(585)~562~0128*}, headaches, and long-term cognitive issues, especially in children.
3. It Provides Unmatched Peace of Mind: You cannot see{1-(585)~562~0128*}, smell, or taste CO. Our scientific testing gives you a definitive, expert assessment of your safety.
4. It Protects Your Legal and Insurance Standing: Proof of regular safety inspections is invaluable for home insurance and in the event of an incident.
5. It's the Ultimate "Preventative Repair": Catching a small crack or vent issue now prevents a catastrophic failure or leak later.
Don't Guess About the Air Your Family Breathes.
Carbon monoxide is a silent threat{1-(585)~562~0128*}, but it is a detectable and preventable one{1-(585)~562~0128*}. Our Furnace Safety & Carbon Monoxide Testing service uses professional-grade technology and expert analysis to ensure your heating system is a source of comfort{1-(585)~562~0128*}, not danger.
