Preventing Carbon Monoxide Problems

Carbon monoxide is a silent killer– it seeps into homes with no smell or warning and can kill a person in minutes. Appliances and other household devices that generate combustion fumes are the main producers of carbon monoxide. When used properly, these appliances have no negative effect on your daily life. If used incorrectly, however, hazardous levels of carbon monoxide (CO) can result. Commit to carbon monoxide safety by engaging in regular furnace tune ups and heating maintenance plans, and by practicing the following Do’s and Don’ts from Precision Air and Plumbing:

DO’s

• Know the symptoms of CO poisoning: low to moderate levels cause headaches, dizziness, confusion, nausea, fainting, and shortness of breath– if these levels persist for long, they can result in death
• Know how to respond to CO poisoning symptoms: get fresh air, go to an emergency room, and be prepared to answer questions for your doctor about what kind of appliances you use, how long you’ve been experiencing symptoms, and whether others in the household feel similar
• Have your appliances inspected by a professional regularly
• Choose appliances that vent fumes outside
• Ensure new appliances are properly installed and maintained according to manufacturer’s directions
• Avoid gas or kerosene space heaters; if you must use them, follow the warning labels strictly and open a window for ventilation
• Invest in a carbon monoxide detector

DON’T’s

• Use gas ovens to heat your home, even for short durations
• Use charcoal grills indoors, even in your fireplace
• Fall asleep in an unventilated room with a kerosene or gas space heater
• Use gasoline-powered devices in enclosed spaces (i.e., weed trimmers, snow blowers, chain saws, generators)
• Idle your car in the garage, even with the garage door open; fumes build up quickly and can seep into your home
• Most importantly, never ignore the symptoms of CO poisoning, especially if you’re not alone in feeling them: the effects take you over quickly, and you could lose consciousness or die if you do nothing.

If you have questions about carbon monoxide safety in your home, call Precision Air and Plumbing today. Our professional contractors are highly-trained in all areas of heating system installation and care, including furnace tune ups, attic ventilation, and helpful heating maintenance plans. Call 602-fix-my-ac or schedule an appointment with a heating system expert at Precision and Air Heating.