PITTSBURGH,None — Target 11 has a consumer alert about carbon monoxide. If you don't take care of your furnace, you could be putting your family in danger.
Consumer Investigator Robin Taylor talked to furnace experts about how you can protect your family.
You should change your furnace filter every few months. When dust builds up, it can block air flow and that will make your furnace work harder. Most air filters cost between $10 and $20. Some are designed to be replaced once a month; others will last several months. Also grab a flashlight and take a look inside.
You shouldn't see any black soot or combustion residue or water dripping.
Todd Rhule, co-owner of A Comfort Service, said having a newer unit could actually add to the problem. "Modern furnaces are not like older furnaces. They are very susceptible to failure; dirt is the biggest culprit," said Rhule.
Also, make sure you install a carbon monoxide detector.
Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are often mistaken for the flu.
WPXI
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