Understanding Carbon Monoxide and How to Keep Your Family Safe
Carbon monoxide is a colorless and odor less gas that is usually caused by incomplete combustion of a fossil fuel burning appliance. Incomplete combustion can be caused by multiple factors such as the improper venting of a heating appliance, cracked heat exchangers, back drafting of heating equipment, improper use of appliances, and improper use of equipment in a closed or confined space. Professional inspections by a HVAC technician or heating contractor can significantly reduce the chances of toxic gas from entering the home. It is a very good idea to also have appropriate detectors installed in your home.
Health risks of exposure generally develop with in 8 hours. Usually health effects are seen when gas levels in the home are higher then 10 parts per million (PPM). Exposure can bring about health effects such as headaches, weakness, dizziness, confusion and watering eyes. Some of the more severe symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are severe headache, nausea, vomiting, convulsions, severe flu like symptoms. Carbon monoxide can be lethal at higher concentrations. The danger of the gas is that there is no odor and color. The only method of detection is with the use of detectors.