subject: The Unseen Dangers Carbon Monoxide [print this page] The Unseen Dangers Carbon Monoxide The Unseen Dangers Carbon Monoxide
Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, tasteless gas and it can be a silent killer.
Every year there are tragic tales in the news about people often entire families who died as a result of carbon monoxide poisoning, never having known what hit them.
In addition, continual exposure to low levels of carbon monoxide can cause lasting health problems.
Why is Carbon Monoxide so Deadly?
Carbon monoxide prevents the human body from taking in adequate amounts of oxygen. When people are killed by carbon monoxide poisoning unfortunately they have literally suffocated.
Where does Carbon Monoxide Come From
In general, carbon monoxide is produced when any material burns. More is produced when there isn't enough oxygen for efficient burning.
Badly maintained or poorly vented furnaces and fireplaces are the obvious culprits that spring to mind but a malfunctioning gas clothes dryer or stove can lead to a dangerous buildup of carbon monoxide just as easily.
Having all the fuel burning appliances in your home not just your heating system checked on at least an annual basis is not just advisable but essential if your home is to remain the safe haven it is supposed to be.
Signs of a Carbon Monoxide Problem
As previously mentioned carbon monoxide can build up over time. If you notice any of the following conditions in your home call in a professional immediately:
Streaks of black soot around any of your fuel-burning appliances
A lack of upward draft in your fireplace
Excessive rusting on flue pipes, other pipe connections, or any appliance jacks
Bright orange flames coming from your gas stove or fireplace they should be blue.
Strange smoky smells that are palpable but not enough to set off your smoke alarms
Water leaking from the base of the chimney vent, or flue pipe
Damaged or discolored often blackened looking bricks at the top of your chimney
Lastly but by no means least, invest in a decent carbon monoxide alarm system. They are not that expensive, many of them simply plug into an electrical outlet and they really could save your life one day.
