Carbon Monoxide Gas - Home Safety Check
Carbon Monoxide gas is a natural by-product produced during the combustion of fossil fuels. The use of fossil fuels such as natural gas, gasoline, fuel oil, propane, coal, and wood pose the possibility of carbon monoxide poisoning at dangerous levels of exposure. Carbon Monoxide (CO) gas is considered a silent killer because it is tasteless, has no odor and can not be seen.
The average home contains multiple appliances that require periodic inspection for safety concerns. Even with appliances that are installed correctly and working efficiently, there is always the possibility of the presence of Carbon Monoxide gas . Dangerous levels of carbon monoxide gas build up when there is incomplete gas combustion and/or inadequate ventilation. A build-up of grease, soot or dirt can impede the correct ratio of the combustible material with oxygen for burning efficiency. Cracks in the mechanical parts of an appliance may leak. Appliances with vents can become impeded by a bird's nest or a build up of debris. This blockage reduces the ability to remove the contaminated air from the house and can even vent Carbon Monoxide gas back into the interior of a home. In fact, an air tight, energy-efficient home may offer poor ventilation because it is so well-sealed. Even small amounts of Carbon Monoxide gas in the energy-efficient home may result in producing symptoms of exposure.
APPLIANCES: Gas Stove or Range Top, Water Heater, Gas Clothes Dryer - Inspect for:
- dirty or clogged burners
- rust or damage to burner system
- proper installation & ventilation
- lint build up or clogging of exhaust pipes in the clothes dryer
- keep burners and oven clean on a regular basis
- maintain and/ or adjust the air to fuel mixture by a professional
HEATING SYSTEMS: Furnace, Gas Log Fireplace, Vent-less Space Heater - Inspect for:
- mechanical failures such as a cracked heat exchanger or flue
- cracks or leaks in the body of the heater
- clogged or dirty burner
- clogged or dirty pilot light
- proper installation and venting
- signs of flooding in the area
- maintain and/ or adjust the air to fuel mixture by a professional
Wood burning Fireplace or Wood Stove
- open the damper before starting a fire
- leave flue open even if the fire is almost out
- burn only seasoned wood; don't use treated wood, painted wood, or scrap lumber
- leave a window cracked in the room to provide extra ventilation and fresh air
- clean ashes when completely cool
- regular inspection and maintenance of wood stove, damper, and flue by a professional
Chimney, Flues & Stove Pipe - Inspect for:
- blockages or impediments such as bird's nests or leaves
- snow or ice blockages in the winter
- cracked masonry
- evidence of creosote build-up
Consider: - regular inspections and chimney cleaning by a professional
- install a screen cap for the top of the chimney
Regular inspections of appliances and the heating system can help to prevent the potential hazards of Carbon Monoxide gas poisoning. It is highly recommended to install Carbon Monoxide alarm(s), centrally located outside of each separate sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of the bedrooms. Additional detectors may also be required as per your local regulations. Browse our CO Detectors at: https://inspectusa.com/co-alarms-and-detectors-c-28.html
