San Antonio's housing stock skews older than state averages, with significant construction from the 1940s through 1970s. These homes use atmospheric venting that relies on natural draft rather than powered exhaust. Older furnaces and water heaters lack the safety features required on modern equipment, including flame rollout switches, blocked vent sensors, and oxygen depletion sensors. The city's mild winters encourage residents to postpone replacement of aging equipment until complete failure occurs. That delay creates risk because heat exchangers deteriorate gradually, developing hairline cracks that leak carbon monoxide long before the furnace stops heating. San Antonio's humidity accelerates corrosion in metal flues and vent pipes, particularly in homes without adequate attic ventilation. The combination of old equipment, deteriorated venting, and deferred maintenance makes carbon monoxide incidents more likely here than in cities with newer housing.
Local HVAC contractors understand San Antonio's specific code requirements and inspection protocols. The city recently updated carbon monoxide detector requirements for rental properties and homes sold after certain dates. We stay current with these changes and verify compliance during service calls. Our technicians recognize construction methods common to different eras and neighborhoods. A 1950s home in Terrell Hills vents differently than a 1980s ranch in Helotes or a 2010 subdivision home in Stone Oak. We know when to apply prescriptive code requirements versus performance-based solutions for older homes. Building relationships with local suppliers means we can source hard-to-find parts for vintage equipment when repair makes sense. That local expertise and commitment to San Antonio families makes us the safer choice when carbon monoxide safety is at stake.
