Carbon Monoxide Dangers

Avoid Carbon Monoxide Problems

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless and tasteless gas produced by the incomplete burning of fuels such as natural gas, propane, heating oil, kerosene, coal, charcoal, gasoline or wood. CO is dangerous if released in your home and can cause serious illness or even death.

You can help prevent CO problems by making sure your gas appliances are vented correctly and in proper working order. Here are some more ways to avoid CO buildup in your home:

• Have your natural gas furnace and primary natural gas appliances checked annually by a qualified technician.
• Check vents and chimneys to make sure they're clear and undamaged. Watch for loose mortar or bricks on the chimney that can slip and block airways.
• Have wood-burning stoves and fireplaces installed and vented by a professional.
• Clear snow and ice away from outside vents to avoid CO buildup inside the home.
• Don't seal off all the fresh-air sources in your home if you weatherize. Your appliances need to "breathe" to operate properly.
• Never use your gas oven or range top to heat your home. This creates a serious fire hazard and could cause dangerous CO fumes.
• Don't operate gasoline-burning engines such as a car or lawnmower in unventilated areas.
• Install a CO detector. It will alert you if there is a harmful level of CO in your home, so you can safely leave and call a qualified professional to determine the source of the CO buildup. However, a CO detector can't replace of an annual furnace inspection.

• Back to Top