Few things are more important than your commercial HVAC system when it comes to maintaining a safe and efficient workplace. While it keeps your facility comfortable year-round, carbon monoxide leaks can also pose a serious hidden danger.
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas that can be deadly if left undetected. Poorly maintained heating systems are one of the most common sources of carbon monoxide leaks at work, and without regular commercial HVAC maintenance, your business could be at serious risk.
Read on to learn how carbon monoxide leaks happen, the dangers they pose, and how HVAC maintenance plans for businesses can extend your HVAC life expectancy and help prevent a disaster before it starts.
How Carbon Monoxide Leaks Happen in HVAC Systems
Many businesses don’t realize how easily carbon monoxide leaks can develop in HVAC systems. Here are some of the most common causes:
- Cracked Heat Exchangers: Over time, heat exchangers in furnaces can develop cracks due to wear and tear. A cracked heat exchanger allows combustion gases, including carbon monoxide, to leak into the air supply.
- Blocked or Clogged Vents: Chimneys, exhaust flues, and intake vents can become clogged with debris, bird nests, or ice, leading to poor ventilation and CO buildup.
- Poor Combustion Efficiency: Furnaces and boilers rely on a proper fuel-to-air ratio for combustion. If the burner isn’t calibrated correctly or if the flame is burning yellow instead of blue, it could be producing excess carbon monoxide.
- Neglected Water Heaters: How can carbon monoxide come from a water heater? Gas-powered water heaters can also become sources of CO leaks if their vents are blocked or if the burner assembly isn’t functioning properly.
The good news? Regular HVAC maintenance can catch these issues before they become a threat.
The Risks of Carbon Monoxide Exposure for Businesses
Carbon monoxide poisoning can have devastating effects on both people and operations.
Health Risks for Employees & Customers:
Even low levels of CO exposure can cause headaches, dizziness, nausea, and confusion. Prolonged or high exposure can lead to unconsciousness, brain damage, or even death.
Business Risks & Liability:
A carbon monoxide leak can result in:
- Emergency evacuations disrupting operations
- OSHA violations and potential legal consequences
- Financial losses from downtime and liability claims
- Reputation damage if employees or customers get sick
If you’re responsible for maintaining your building’s HVAC system, it’s essential to have a plan in place to prevent carbon monoxide leaks at work.
How Preventative Maintenance Protects Your Business
A proactive HVAC maintenance plan is the best defense against CO leaks. Here’s how routine commercial HVAC maintenance keeps your business safe:
- Biannual Inspections: Schedule professional HVAC inspections at least twice a year (before heating and cooling seasons) to catch potential issues early.
- Combustion Efficiency Testing: Ensures furnaces and boilers are operating correctly and not producing excess CO.
- Vent & Flue Cleaning: Keeps airflow unobstructed to prevent dangerous CO buildup.
- Carbon Monoxide Detector Installation & Maintenance: Every commercial building should have working CO detectors as part of its safety strategy. Moore’s can help install and maintain these critical devices.
How to Know if Your Furnace Needs Maintenance?
HVAC systems are complex, so it’s expected that problems to arise. There are some HVAC problems you can troubleshoot, but some concerns are best left up to the professionals. If you notice any of the following signs, it’s time to schedule a maintenance check immediately:
- Unusual odors or sounds coming from your furnace
- Increased heating bills with no clear reason
- Yellow burner flames instead of blue
- Visible rust or soot around vents
Putting the Plan Into Motion
Neglecting HVAC maintenance and repairs can lead to dangerous and costly consequences. The best way to protect your business is to partner with a trusted HVAC provider that offers transparent service plans and a proven track record of keeping facilities safe.
At Moore’s, we specialize in HVAC maintenance plans for businesses, helping facility managers prevent CO risks before they start. We offer:
- Scheduled maintenance to keep your system running efficiently
- CO testing and detector installation for added protection
- Transparent service plans with no hidden fees
Protect your employees, customers, and business from hidden carbon monoxide risks. Schedule preventative HVAC maintenance today!