Carbon Monoxide Awareness

Carbon Monoxide is a colorless, odorless, poisonous gas and in elevated levels prevents oxygen from being used by your body. Our bodies produce carbon monoxide naturally as a by-product of hemoglobin degradation. This gas we produce though, does not reach toxic levels unless inhaled from outside sources.

Carbon Monoxide is the result of incomplete oxidation of carbon during the combustion process. Some sources of carbon monoxide are: kerosene and gas space heaters that are un-vented, gas stoves, gas clothes dryer, gas water heaters, wood stoves and fireplaces to just name a few. Other possible sources could be appliances in your camper or cabin and barbecue grills.

Low levels of Carbon Monoxide in your home are common. It is when you have elevated levels that you need to be concerned and take action. Average levels in a home without gas stoves usually vary from 0.5 to 5 parts per million (ppm). Levels near properly adjusted gas stoves are often 5 to 15 ppm and those near poorly adjusted stoves may be 30ppm or higher. (Consult a professional if you have concerns about the level in your home).

If you are concerned about carbon monoxide levels in your home you can purchase a Carbon Monoxide detector. (Please note that there are other measuring devices available – check with your local heating and ventilation professional).

Much like a smoke alarm, it will alert you to increased levels of carbon monoxide in your home. Remember though, these are not foolproof and caution should be taken when depending on them. If your alarm sounds and you are experiencing symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning (headaches, dizziness, weakness, nausea, blurry vision or disorientation) leave your home and immediately call your local emergency services number or 911.

The symptoms listed above are not meant to serve as a diagnosis of carbon monoxide poisoning but just as information on possible symptoms). As always, check with your doctor first!

You can reduce your family’s risk to Carbon Monoxide poisoning by keeping gas appliances properly adjusted. Always replace or repair malfunctioning appliances (gas hot water heater, gas stove, furnaces, gas dryer, etc.) immediately

Keeping chimneys free and clear also helps reduce risk. Keep the fireplace flue open while in use. Never let a car idle inside the garage. Always use an exhaust fan vented to the outdoors over gas stoves. As preventative maintenance it is always a good idea to have a trained professional inspect, tune-up and clean central heating systems (furnaces, chimneys, and flues) annually.

Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, poisonous gas that can cause flu like symptoms. Low levels in the home are common however elevated levels should be a concern. Purchasing a carbon monoxide detector along with maintaining/replacing your appliances when they are malfunctioning, etc. are just some of the defenses against this type of poisoning. As always check with your local professional if you have any doubts or immediate concerns.

Thomas J. Monaghan
Ridge Line Home Inspection, LLC
414-530-7773