The Silent Killer: Essential Carbon Monoxide Safety for Des Moines Winters

Carbon monoxide (CO) is called the “silent killer” for good reason. It is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas that can be deadly if it builds up in your home. Because it cannot be detected by human senses, the only way to know if carbon monoxide is present is through detectors and proper safety precautions. 

In Des Moines, the winter season brings a greater risk of carbon monoxide exposure. Furnaces and fireplaces run for long hours, doors and windows stay tightly sealed, and power outages may lead to unsafe use of generators. That is why Green’s Appliance, Heating & Cooling, trusted by central Iowa homeowners since 1958, encourages every family to understand carbon monoxide safety and take preventive steps during the colder months. 

Understanding Carbon Monoxide: Sources in Your Home 

Carbon monoxide is produced when fuel does not burn completely. Many common household appliances and activities can generate CO if they are not properly maintained, vented, or used. 

• Furnaces: Older or poorly maintained furnaces are one of the leading sources of CO leaks in the winter. Cracked heat exchangers or blocked flues can allow gas to escape into your home. 

• Water Heaters: Gas-fired water heaters that are not vented correctly can release CO into the air. 

• Gas Stoves & Ovens: Cooking with a gas stove is common, but running the oven as a heat source can produce unsafe levels of CO. 

• Fireplaces & Wood Stoves: If the flue or chimney is blocked or not drafting properly, smoke and gases can leak into the living space. 

• Clothes Dryers: Gas-fired dryers vent outdoors, but if the vent is clogged or iced over, CO can back up into the home. 

• Portable Generators: These should never be used indoors, in garages, or even near windows and doors. Generators must always be operated outside and away from your home to prevent exhaust from seeping inside. 

• Automobiles: Leaving a car running inside an attached garage, even with the door open, is extremely dangerous. Exhaust can easily enter the home.

Why Winter Increases the Risk 

Carbon monoxide is a year-round danger, but winter conditions increase the likelihood of exposure in Des Moines homes. 

• Closed Homes: To conserve heat, we seal windows and doors tightly during the winter. This reduces natural ventilation and allows gases to accumulate more easily indoors. 

• Increased Appliance Use: Furnaces, fireplaces, and gas appliances are used heavily, which raises the risk of leaks or incomplete combustion. 

• Blocked Vents: Snow, ice, and debris can block exterior vents for furnaces, water heaters, and dryers. When exhaust cannot exit the home, CO can build up quickly. 

• Power Outages: Winter storms can cause outages, leading to unsafe use of portable generators or makeshift heating solutions such as charcoal grills or camp stoves indoors. 

Essential Carbon Monoxide Winter Safety Tips 

Preventing CO exposure requires proactive steps and consistent attention. Green’s recommends the following measures for all Des Moines homeowners: 

Tip 1: Install and Maintain CO Detectors 

Place carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home, especially near sleeping areas. Test them monthly, replace batteries twice a year, and follow manufacturer recommendations for replacement units. 

Tip 2: Schedule Annual Furnace Maintenance 

Professional furnace maintenance is one of the most effective ways to prevent CO leaks. Green’s technicians inspect heat exchangers, burners, and venting systems to ensure safe operation. An annual tune-up in the heating season helps keep your system running safely throughout the winter. 

Tip 3: Ensure Proper Ventilation 

Check that appliance vents and chimneys are clear of snow, ice, leaves, or other blockages. A blocked vent can cause CO to flow back into your home. 

Tip 4: Use Fuel-Burning Appliances Safely 

Never use ovens, grills, or camp stoves to heat your home. Only operate fuel-burning appliances according to manufacturer instructions and always ensure they are properly vented outdoors. 

Tip 5: Know the Symptoms and Act Fast 

Early symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning can mimic the flu, including headache, dizziness, nausea, and fatigue. If exposure continues, symptoms progress to confusion, loss of consciousness, or even death. 

What to Do If Your CO Alarm Sounds 

• Immediately move everyone outdoors to fresh air. 

• Call 911 or your local fire department. 

• Do not re-enter your home until it has been declared safe by emergency responders. 

Do Not Take Chances This Winter. Trust Green’s. 

Carbon monoxide is a hidden danger, but with the right precautions, it is preventable. From installing detectors to providing expert furnace maintenance, Green’s Appliance, Heating & Cooling is here to help you keep your family safe. 

For more than 65 years, we have served Des Moines and central Iowa with professional HVAC service built on trust, experience, and customer care. Your safety and comfort are always our top priorities. 

Do not take chances with carbon monoxide this winter. Call Green’s today to schedule furnace maintenance or learn more about carbon monoxide prevention for your home.