The poisonous gas that cannot be seen, smelled, tasted, and can be fatal if high levels are inhaled is known as Carbon Monoxide (CO). This toxic gas can build up in your home without you knowing. Symptoms that arise due to over-inhalation of Carbon Monoxide are very similar to the symptoms of the flu or allergies.
Sources of Carbon Monoxide
- Air leaks within your furnace, water heater, or fireplace.
- Low-performing ventilation.
- Car exhaust.
- Even your oven (although you would have to leave it on and open to cause an issue).
Health Risks
Low PPM (a low concentration)
Fatigue in an ordinarily healthy person and chest pain more so seen in people with heart disease are some signs that there may be a carbon monoxide presence in your home.
High PPM (a high concentration)
At higher concentrations you may experience impaired vision and/or coordination, nausea, confusion, headaches, dizziness, unconsciousness, and even death.
Steps You Can Take to Stay Safe
Perform Regular Maintenance
Replacing dirty air filters in your HVAC (heating ventilation and air conditioning) system is a great start and there area few more things you can do. Inspection and servicing of your heating system every 6 months is considered good practice for both your system and you and your family’s health. You should also have any fuel burning appliances serviced. During those cold winter months you should check your vents and chimneys to ensure no airflow is blocked.
Take the Necessary Precautions
Never run your car in a closed garage, or any other fuel burning machine in closed areas. Machines like generators and power-washers can produce carbon monoxide. Home cooking and camping devices like a charcoal grill or camping lantern/stove should also be used in open and well ventilated areas. Keep all the areas you use these machines and devices well ventilated.
The Best Investment
Installing a carbon monoxide detector is the best (and cheapest) investment you can make in your home regarding carbon monoxide. Installing them is simple takes only a few minutes. Follow any instructions provided to you by the manufacturer and put one on every level of your home. The best location for a carbon monoxide detector is near sleeping areas because CO gas tends to go unnoticed by the human senses and waking you up is exactly what you want this device to do.
If you would like to have Alpine Temperature Control inspect your system and/or home to make sure you and your family are safe, please give us a call at 435-673-5746 or contact us online. We are proud to serve the Southern Utah area.
