What is the potential risk associated with a gas furnace that is not properly maintained?

A gas furnace that is not properly maintained can lead to carbon monoxide leaks, which pose a serious safety hazard. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can be produced during the combustion process if the furnace is not functioning correctly or if there are blockages in the venting system. Regular maintenance, including inspections of the heat exchanger, venting, and safety controls, is crucial for ensuring that the furnace operates efficiently and safely. When these components are neglected, the risk of incomplete combustion increases, leading to the potential buildup of carbon monoxide within the home, which can be life-threatening.

While increased carbon footprint, higher repair costs, and excessive fuel consumption can also result from poor maintenance, they do not pose an immediate life hazard like carbon monoxide leaks do. Thus, the most critical risk associated with a poorly maintained gas furnace is indeed the potential for carbon monoxide exposure.