Depending on your location, seasonal changes can bring about drastic temperature changes and weather conditions. On a blazing summer day or cold winter night, you rely on your HVAC system to deliver comfortable indoor temperatures. Under normal conditions, your HVAC equipment can provide comfortable air and nice conditions throughout your home. Unfortunately, however, if there are issues with your heating or cooling system, it can cause health and safety risks. As a result, it is important that you have your equipment inspected and serviced at regular intervals.

In most cases, your HVAC unit should last around 20 years. With care and routine maintenance, however, you might be able to extend the lifespan of your unit. However, even with proper maintenance, your system will begin to break down and show signs of wear and tear as it ages. Aging equipment can malfunction in a way that causes safety concerns. Whether due to old age, damage, or improper maintenance, however, you need to be aware of the problems that can occur from faulty equipment.

A faulty AC or furnace can pose a health danger that can lead to serious consequences. Let’s take a look at a few heating and cooling system-related health and safety issues that you need to take note of.

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

One of the most common safety concerns of faulty heating and cooling equipment is carbon monoxide leaks. Serious health consequences can occur as a result of carbon monoxide poisoning. Because carbon monoxide is odorless and colorless, it can be hard to detect and especially dangerous. A damaged or cracked heat exchanger is a common cause of carbon monoxide leaks inside homes. This is a particular concern with older furnaces and heating systems. The best way to prevent carbon monoxide leaks is with regular annual maintenance by a qualified technician. Routine maintenance can help catch and address potential problems before they become issues. Additionally, all homeowners should have a carbon monoxide detector installed in the house.

Improper Air Filtration

Incorrect air filtration can also prove to be a health hazard for you and your family. Due to allergens, dust, or other airborne contaminants, poor air quality can create significant issues for those with allergies, asthma, or other respiratory illnesses. Several health conditions can occur as a result of poor air quality. Faulty HVAC systems can improperly filter air and inadvertently circulate harmful irritants through your home. Preventative maintenance and regular air filter changes are important for ensuring your HVAC system provide clean, quality air.

Electrical Problems

Electrical issues with faulty equipment can pose several risks. A common problem is water leakage within the system. If the condensation drain of your AC unit becomes blocked, water can collect around system components and lead to the risk of electrical shock. As a result, unskilled homeowners should never try to perform maintenance or service on their own HVAC systems. Trained technicians can safely navigate the components in your system and correct drainage issues. Regular maintenance will also ensure that water leaks and drainage problems are prevented.

During regular use, your system can experience several minor issues such as cracks, leaks, and loose connections. If left unresolved, these problems could create electrical hazards with your equipment. Faulty HVAC systems with electrical problems could pose a fire risk that could harm your home and family. It is important to have regular system inspections and check-ups to ensure that your equipment is safe and free from electrical malfunctions. Several home fires take place each year as a result of faulty cooling and heating equipment.

In general, your HVAC system delivers comfortable indoor temperatures to your home safely. Aging or improperly maintained equipment, however, can aggravate allergies, create unsafe health conditions, and pose electrical dangers. Routine maintenance and care is the key to safer, malfunction-free HVAC equipment.