24/7 Emergency Service
(650) 397-7060
May Require Emergency Service

Carbon Monoxide Alarm? Emergency Response

A carbon monoxide alarm is a serious emergency. CO is an odorless, colorless gas that can be fatal. If your alarm sounds, evacuate immediately and call for emergency assistance.

This is a critical issue. If you're experiencing this problem, call immediately for safety.

Signs & Symptoms

!CO detector alarm sounding
!Multiple household members with headaches
!Nausea, dizziness, confusion
!Flu-like symptoms that improve when away from home
!Pets acting lethargic
!Yellow or flickering pilot light

Possible Causes

  • -Cracked heat exchanger
  • -Blocked flue or chimney
  • -Backdrafting from furnace or water heater
  • -Malfunctioning gas appliance
  • -Running car in attached garage
  • -Improper appliance venting
  • -Using generator indoors

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

Try these steps before calling a professional (unless it's an emergency):

  1. 1EVACUATE IMMEDIATELY if alarm sounds
  2. 2Call 911 from outside the home
  3. 3Don't re-enter until cleared by fire dept
  4. 4If detector shows low battery, replace it
  5. 5Get fresh air if experiencing symptoms

When to Call a Professional

  • !ALWAYS after CO alarm event
  • !Fire department identifies source
  • !Need heat exchanger inspection
  • !Gas appliances need safety check
  • !Want to prevent future incidents
  • !Any suspected CO exposure

Estimated Repair Costs

Diagnostic: $150-$300

Minor Repair: $200-$500

Major Repair: $2,000-$6,000

Inspection after CO event is critical. Cracked heat exchanger usually means furnace replacement.

Prevention Tips

* Install CO detectors on every level
* Test detectors monthly
* Replace detector batteries annually
* Schedule annual furnace inspection
* Never run generators or cars in enclosed spaces

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if my CO alarm goes off?

Evacuate immediately. Don't try to find the source - get everyone out and call 911 from outside. Don't re-enter until the fire department clears the home. Then call for HVAC inspection.

Can a furnace produce carbon monoxide?

Yes. All gas furnaces produce CO during combustion. Normally it's safely vented outside. A cracked heat exchanger or blocked flue can allow CO into your home - that's why annual inspection is critical.

Need Help?

This issue may require emergency service. Call now for immediate assistance.

* 15+ Years Serving the Bay Area

* Same-day diagnosis available

* Upfront pricing

Experiencing Carbon Monoxide Alarm Going Off?

Our expert technicians can diagnose and fix this issue quickly.

Call (650) 397-7060
Call NowSchedule