St. Louis Home Heating Safety: How to Prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Carbon monoxide poisoning illustration. Image credit: Graphic Jargon.
As the temperature drops in Missouri, St. Louis homeowners turn to their furnaces and boilers for warmth. While these systems are designed for comfort, any fuel-burning appliance—whether it runs on natural gas, oil, or propane—carries a hidden risk: Carbon Monoxide Exposure (CO).
The EPA warns that CO exposure above 9 parts per million (ppm) over eight hours can cause health issues and high levels can become fatal within minutes (epa.gov). In a healthy HVAC system, CO levels should remain between 0–5 ppm.
Often called the "Silent Killer," carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless, and tasteless gas. Because you can’t see or smell it, understanding the risks and taking preventative measures is essential for keeping your family or tenants safe.
At Imperium Heating & Cooling, your safety is our top priority. Here is what every St. Louis property owner needs to know about CO safety this winter.
What Causes Carbon Monoxide Leaks in HVAC Systems?
Carbon monoxide is a byproduct of incomplete combustion. In a healthy HVAC system, these gases are safely vented outside your home. However, problems arise due to:
Cracked Heat Exchangers: This is the most common cause of CO leaks. As furnaces age, the metal can crack, allowing toxic gas to seep into your home’s airflow.
Blocked Flues or Chimneys: Debris, bird nests, or soot buildup can prevent exhaust gases from escaping.
Improper Ventilation: In tightly sealed modern homes or older historic St. Louis buildings with outdated ductwork, poor ventilation can cause gas to back up into living spaces.
Identifying the Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Because CO poisoning often mimics the flu, many people don't realize they are in danger until it’s too late. Watch for these "flu-like" symptoms that improve when you leave the house:
Dull headaches and dizziness
Nausea or vomiting
Shortness of breath and confusion
Blurred vision
Sudden fatigue or weakness
If your CO alarm sounds or you suspect a leak, exit the building immediately and call 911 or the local fire department.
5 Essential Steps to Prevent CO Leaks in Your St. Louis Home
St. Louis homeowners and property managers can help prevent carbon monoxide buildup by following the key prevention steps outlined below.
1. Schedule Annual Furnace Maintenance
The best defense is a professional inspection. Our technicians check for cracked heat exchangers, test gas pressure, and ensure your venting system is clear. A Fall tune-up catches these "invisible" dangers before you turn the heat on for the season.
2. Install and Test CO Detectors
Place carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home, especially near sleeping areas. Test them monthly and change the batteries every six months (a good rule of thumb is to do this when you change your clocks for Daylight Savings).
3. Never Use Outdoor Appliances Indoors
During a St. Louis power outage, never use portable generators, charcoal grills, or camp stoves inside your home, garage, or basement. These should be kept at least 20 feet away from windows and doors.
4. Keep Vents Clear of Snow and Debris
In the event of a heavy St. Louis snowstorm, ensure that your furnace’s exterior intake and exhaust pipes are not buried. Blocked vents can cause CO to backdraft into your home.
5. Monitor Your Pilot Light
If you have an older furnace with a standing pilot light, the flame should always be clear blue. A yellow or flickering flame is a sign of improper combustion and potential carbon monoxide production.
Protect Your Property with Imperium Heating & Cooling
Whether you manage a multi-family apartment complex in the Central West End or own a family home in South County, don't leave your safety to chance.
Our team specializes in comprehensive safety audits and precision HVAC repairs. We use advanced diagnostic tools to detect even the smallest cracks in your heat exchanger, giving you peace of mind all winter long.
Is your heating system safe for the season? Schedule Your Safety Inspection Today or call our St. Louis experts at (314) 215-9846