Narrator:
68% of carbon monoxide related deaths caused by home appliances occur in the colder months of October through February, but most Americans don't know that. A new survey conducted by Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning also found that while 94% know that the furnace can release deadly carbon monoxide gas, more than half don't take one simple step that can prevent that from happening. According to Dr. Lance Broy, what you don't can hurt you.
Lance Broy:
Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can be quite harmful. Initial symptoms can be confused for the flu, you can hae nausea and fatigue, but actually can progress and cause organ damage or even death.
Narrator:
Any home appliance that burns fuel like gas, oil, or wood can emit carbon monoxide if it's not functionally properly or wasn't installed correctly, that includes fireplaces, clothes driers, water heaters, and the furnace. George Rodriguez with Service Experts says that an annual furnace tune-up will check to ensure that the furnace is not emitting carbon monoxide. Annual tune-ups have other important benefits as well.
George R.:
By having regular maintenance done on equipment, not only do you have the peace of mind knowing that the equipment is going to be safe, you're also going to be able to have your equipment running at its peak efficiency, and know you're going to save money by the end of the winter.
Narrator:
Also, manufacturers may require an annual tune-up of the heating system to keep the warranty valid. Experts recommend having a carbon monoxide detector outside of every sleeping area, so if your master suite is away from the kids rooms install two detectors. If you have fuel-burning appliances on different floors of your house, like fireplaces, you'll also want a detector on each floor.
Simple steps that don't cost a lot can be priceless when it comes to being sure you and your family don't become an unfortunate carbon monoxide statistic.
