Common HVAC Hazards TX Homeowners Should Be Aware Of
As fall arrives, HVAC systems in West Texas homes are transitioning from the heavy demands of summer, when they work nonstop to combat the seasonal heat and humidity. While designed for regular use, these systems can still experience breakdowns that affect both performance and safety. Some malfunctions may even pose serious risks to your household. From carbon monoxide leaks to electrical problems, here are several common HVAC hazards Texas homeowners should look out for:
Carbon Monoxide Leaks
For homeowners who have furnaces, it’s essential to watch for signs of carbon monoxide leaks. These leaks can occur if a furnace’s heat exchanger cracks, allowing the gas to escape into your home.
Because carbon monoxide is colorless and odorless, it’s extremely difficult to detect. At high levels, exposure can be fatal within just an hour. To keep your family safe, make sure you have working carbon monoxide detectors installed.
If dangerous levels are detected, the alarm will alert you to evacuate immediately. Homeowners should also stay alert for additional warning signs, including:
- Soot around furnaces and other appliances – Indicates incomplete combustion and could be a sign of a leak
- Rust on vent pipes – Corrosion can weaken the system and allow dangerous gases into your home
- Excessive moisture/condensation – Can signal improper ventilation, increasing the risk of carbon monoxide buildup
- Yellow flames in your furnace – While blue flames are normal, yellow flames indicate a problem with combustion, which could release carbon monoxide
Reduced Air Quality
When dirt and debris builds up in your HVAC system, it can significantly reduce your indoor air quality. If air filters, ductwork and AC components aren’t cleaned regularly, they can release allergens and other pollutants into your home. This can trigger respiratory issues, particularly for those with asthma or allergies. Some signs that pollutants are in your air include:
- Dust build up around your vents
- Mold growth around your vents, filters and ducts
- Musty odors
- Hot and cold spots in your home
- Higher energy bills
Damaged Wiring
If your HVAC wiring is damaged or failing, it can cause parts of your system to overheat, and in the worst cases, even start a fire. To protect both yourself and your home, it’s crucial to watch for signs of wiring problems and address them promptly. Some signs of faulty wiring include:
- Exposed wires – Can result in an electrical shock or fire if left unaddressed
- Scorched plugs – Indicates overheating and should be inspected immediately
- Tripped circuit breakers – Can be a sign of an overloaded or faulty circuit
- Buzzing sounds/burning smells – Indicates that there’s an issue with your system’s components and needs immediate attention
Refrigerant Leaks
Another hazard homeowners should be aware of is refrigerant leaks. Over time, worn seals and damaged refrigerant lines can allow these chemicals to escape into the air. Inhaling refrigerant can irritate the respiratory system, while direct contact with the skin may cause eye irritation or chemical burns. Extended exposure to refrigerants can lead to poisoning, which can be life-threatening if not addressed promptly. Some signs of refrigerant leaks include:
- Ice forming on the coils
- Warm air coming from your vents
- Oily stains around your AC’s components
- Hissing sounds coming from your unit
- High energy bills
How Preventative Care Lowers the Risk of HVAC Hazards
While it’s impossible to eliminate all HVAC hazards, regular preventive maintenance can greatly lower the risk of problems. Routine tune-ups give technicians the opportunity to identify and fix potential issues before they become serious.
Early detection of faulty wiring, refrigerant leaks or furnace damage can save you from costly repairs and protect your health. Additionally, keeping filters clean and systems well-maintained reduces airborne pollutants, improving both indoor air quality and the efficiency of your HVAC system.
Looking for HVAC Professionals? Call First Service Today!
If you need dependable HVAC services, our crew at First Service is eager to help! We proudly serve Midland and the surrounding communities. Whether it’s routine inspections, repairs or full system installations, we’re dedicated to providing fast, professional service every time.
Call our team at 432-302-6694 to schedule a consultation today. For more information about our other services, including plumbing and commercial HVAC, visit our website by clicking the link
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