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The Dangers of a Leaking Furnace

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The Dangers of a Leaking Furnace

Posted On: January 28, 2025

The Dangers of a Leaking Furnace

A leaking furnace can pose significant risks to your home and family. Here's a detailed look at the dangers, causes, and solutions to protect your household:



1. Dangers of a Leaking Furnace

a. Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

A leaking furnace can release carbon monoxide (CO), a colorless, odorless, and deadly gas. Symptoms of CO exposure include headaches, dizziness, nausea, confusion, and, in severe cases, loss of consciousness or death. Even small leaks can be harmful over time, making proper maintenance essential.


b. Fire Hazards

Furnace leaks, particularly those involving gas or combustible materials, can create fire hazards. Gas leaks can ignite if exposed to an open flame or spark, posing a serious safety threat to your home.


c. Water Damage

In high-efficiency furnaces, water leaks are common due to condensation issues. This water can damage floors, walls, and ceilings, leading to mold growth, structural deterioration, and costly repairs.


d. Increased Energy Bills

Leaks reduce the furnace's efficiency, forcing it to work harder to heat your home. This results in higher energy consumption and inflated utility bills.



2. Common Causes of Furnace Leaks

a. Cracked Heat Exchanger

A cracked heat exchanger can lead to carbon monoxide leaks and is one of the most dangerous furnace issues. Over time, heat exchangers can deteriorate due to age, overheating, or lack of maintenance.


b. Condensation Drain Issues

In high-efficiency furnaces, condensation drains may clog or crack, leading to water leaks. Improper installation or poor maintenance often exacerbates this problem.


c. Loose or Damaged Seals

Seals within the furnace may wear out over time, allowing gases or water to escape. These issues can often go unnoticed until a leak becomes evident.


d. Gas Line Problems

Faulty gas connections or leaks in the gas line can lead to dangerous situations, including fire risks and CO poisoning.



3. Signs of a Furnace Leak

  • Unusual odors (e.g., sulfur, metallic smells)
  • Water pooling around the furnace
  • Soot or discoloration near vents or the furnace
  • Increased humidity in the home
  • Frequent headaches or flu-like symptoms among family members

4. Prevention and Solutions

a. Regular Maintenance

Schedule annual furnace inspections by a certified HVAC technician. Routine checks help identify and address potential problems before they escalate.


b. Install Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Place CO detectors near bedrooms and furnace areas to alert you to dangerous gas levels. Test them monthly and replace batteries as needed.


c. Address Repairs Promptly

If you suspect a leak, contact a professional immediately. Delaying repairs can worsen the problem and increase risks.


d. Upgrade to a Newer Furnace

If your furnace is old or experiencing frequent issues, consider replacing it with a high-efficiency model. Modern furnaces are safer and more energy-efficient.



5. When to Call a Professional

Contact an HVAC technician immediately if you notice any signs of a leak or suspect your furnace is malfunctioning. Professionals can conduct a thorough inspection, repair damage, and ensure your system operates safely and efficiently.



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See What Our Customers Are Saying:

by Roy in Pickering on Twintech Heating and Cooling

I was referred to Twintech by a neighbour and was not disappointed. Not only was the customer service excellent their workmanship was second to none. Greg and Grant work extremely clean covering the pathway to the furnace room, labeling the essential parts, left the area spotless and were efficient. They cleaned up the mess left by the previous installers (wiring, improperly installed AC coil, and gaps in venting etc). They also ran through the operation of the new furnace and gave me some maintenance tips. Greg and Grant are professional and all around good guys. I will definitely recommend their service to anyone without hesitation.

by Peter Buck, Pickering on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Very satisfied with service from Twintech , beginning with all the information provided by Dave , which helped make the decision much easier . Installation was very smooth & done on time as promised & cleanup was well done . Would definitely recommend this company & use them again for any future needs . Well done.

by Angela from Ajax on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Twintech Heating & Cooling Inc. came in and replaced my 39 year old furnace with a beautiful Napoleon variable high efficiency furnace! Their work was efficient and professional and they were a pleasure to deal with, from sales to installation! I would highly recommend them.

by Scott and Sandra in Ajax on Twintech Heating and Cooling

After receiving numerous quotes to replace my old furnace and AC unit (which was 20 years old) I went with Twintech. Dave, in sales, answered questions professionally and promptly and worked diligently in order to secure my business. Installation was scheduled the week after and Greg and Peter showed up, as scheduled, and did a fine job installing both units. The site was left tidy and neat. I would highly recommend Twintech for your furnace and AC work.

by Linda from Whitby on Twintech Heating and Cooling

I chose TwinTech because they installed my new furnace a few years ago and did a great job. When they installed my new A/C, they replaced all parts -- the copper pipes, the housing on top of the furnace and the wiring. (Apparently, the wiring for my old A/C was insufficient.) Their pricing was competitive. The sales representative came to see me within a few hours of my call. My new A/C was installed a few days later and I couldn't be happier with Twintech's professionalism and work. I would recommend TwinTech to any homeowner.

by george polychronis from Whitby on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Had a great experience with this company. Great price and great customer service. You wont be disappointed with twintech. Discussed the job with Greg while he was installing who was extremely informative and obviously enjoys the work he does.

by Nuzio in Markham on Twintech Heating and Cooling

I needed my AC unit relocated due to upcoming landscape work. I reached out to the Twintech team through Homestars. Dave connected with me immediately to discuss the project and various options. We decided the best option was to mount the unit on the wall. Greg was in touch with me the same day as well and we scheduled the work for later that same week. This was a small job so I did not think I would get immediate attention. The Twintech team exceeded my expectations in every respect. They were very knowledgeable and friendly. The team arrived exactly on time on the scheduled day and worked efficiently to get the job done quickly. I would definitely use Twintech again for any Heating and AC projects.

by Leslie B, Pickering on Twintech Heating and Cooling

I have used Greg Dainty for over 15 years in 3 different homes, for heating, cooling, pool heaters, appliances and bbq lines. Greg has always been so professional, friendly and the workmanship nothing short of fantastic. Greg has always discussed my options and fixing versus replacing, giving his honest opinion and what works best for me cost effective wise and long term. I have valued his opinion so much and have not trusted my gas needs with anyone since using him. I have also referred him to many of my friends and family and have always been so thankful with how well and quickly he looks after us all. I hold Greg in the highest regard and would recommend him to anyone with complete confidence!

by Marcel M, Whitby ON on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Really nice honest guys. It was a pleasure to do business with a company that does exactly what they say they’re going to do! My basement was cleaner after they installed my new furnace and AC. Thanks again Greg and Grant and for doing such a great job.

by George In Pickering on Twintech Heating and Cooling

5 star service!! I had twin tech install a high efficiency furnace and hot water tank at my home. I am taking time to write this review as a thanks for what I viewed as next level service that went above and beyond. Prior to installation they explained my specific options without pushy sales tactics and up front costs. Greg and Grant replaced a large portion of the duct work (built in their own shop) that had rusted over the years which resulted in a great looking job. It was a pleasure to work with people are passionate and take pride in their work. Following the installation they explained all aspects and maintenance of the new equipment. Products have worked flawlessly. Thanks again Greg and Grant! Highly recommend!!

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See What Our Customers Are Saying:

by Robert Rogers on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Very pleased with the professional service that TwinTech Heating and Cooling provided in replacing my furnace. I got several quotes from different service providers. Their price was excellent and they explained the features very well. We are very glad we went with TwinTech and highly recommend their services.

by Robert Mizuno on Twintech Heating and Cooling

We were new homeowners in need of a second opinion. TwinTech Heating & Cooling were Amazing and professional. Very knowledgeable and great service all around. Recommend to anyone looking for honest and reliable services. Treated with respect and care. Thank you Greg, Mitch and Bob!

by Ruth on Twintech Heating and Cooling

TwinTech is an excellent and honest company! I called them for a second opinion after being told by another company that I needed to replace my furnace. Turns out this was not the case at all! I did not need a new furnace. TwinTech did not push to make an unnecessary sale and saved me from a huge expense. Bob and Mitch were extremely professional and above all honest! I definitely recommend TwinTech!

by Anna Chin on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Amazing experience with TwinTech Heating & Cooling! Their team was professional, knowledgeable, and efficient from start to finish. They installed my new furnace quickly and left everything spotless. The technicians took the time to explain everything and made sure I was comfortable with the system before they left. Great customer service and fair pricing. I highly recommend them for anyone needing HVAC services!

by Connor Agnew on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Great experience all around. Bob was sharp and easy to talk to, and Greg handled the installation perfectly. Would hire them again in a heartbeat.

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