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Carbon Monoxide Information
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Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless, deadly gas that is a byproduct of incomplete combustion. CO can form in homes when there is not enough fresh air for complete combustion of fuel.
Wat are sources of CO?
- Furnaces
- Wood burning stoves
- Water heaters
- Motor vehicle exhaust
- Fireplaces
- Gasoline powered engines
- Gas appliances
- Charcoal burning barbecue grills
- Kerosene heaters and appliances
What may cause CO levels to increase?
- Fuel burning appliances and other equipment that are not functioning properly or are not adequately vented may cause a build up of CO.
- Air tight, energy efficient homes meant to keep warm air in during winter months and cool air in during summer months may also trap CO inside.
- Cracked furnace heat exchanger
- Blocked vents and chimneys
- Disconnected or corroded vents
- An inadequate air supply for fuel burning appliances can cause down drafting which may force CO contaminated air back into the home.
What are the signs of CO poisoning and build up?
- Sleepiness
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Blurred vision
- Nausea
- Flu like symptoms
What are signs that a fuel burning appliance is not receiving enough fresh air for combustion?
- Excessive humidity in the house indicated by heavily frosted windows
- Peculiar, stale odor
- Burning eyes when an appliance is operating
- Fireplace that doesn't draw properly
How do you prevent CO build up?
- Make sure that your fuel burning appliances are in good operating condition and are properly vented with an adequate fresh air supply.
- Never use a charcoal barbecue grill inside your home or garage.
- Never run an automobile inside of a garage.
- Perform annual maintenance checks on your home's ventilation systems. Check fireplace, clothes dryer, space heaters and chimney.
- Have your furnace inspected annually.
Why should I buy a CO detector?
- CO detectors are the only way to detect dangerous levels of CO in your home. Ideally, you should have one CO detector for every level of your home. Ensure that a detector is placed near sleeping areas.
What features should I look for when I select a CO detector?
- The Underwriters Laboratory (UL) symbol. This symbol means that the detector has met the recommended safety standards of the American National Standards Institute.
- CO detectors with an audible alarm.
- AC/DC powered detectors. This type of detector will provide coverage during a power outage.
- CO detectors that have a digital readout. This will allow you to determine how you should respond. A high readout requires immediate evacuation of the home and possibly medical attention. A lower reading gives you the opportunity to contact your utility company.
What should you do if your CO detector sounds?
- Assess the health of the people in the house.
- If there appears to be no immediate health hazards, call your utility company or an appliance repair service.
- If anyone is experiencing symptoms of CO poisoning, get the person out of the house and call 9-1-1 immediately.
- Open windows.
- Consider leaving the home until assistance arrives, to avoid the potential for CO poisoning.
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