Carbon monoxide (CO for short) is a colorless, odorless gas produced by many commonly-used home appliances. You may have heard it called the silent killer. To the uninformed person, carbon monoxide can be a frightening thing. However, in a well-maintained and properly ventilated home, death or health complications caused by carbon monoxide should be 100% preventable.
Still, it’s best to be as informed as possible. That’s why our experts at B. Carlson Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing have put together this guide on what you need to know about carbon monoxide! Plus, did you know we offer a Complimentary Carbon Monoxide Test with our 17-Point Gas Heating Tune and Safety Check? Ask us about it today!
Important Carbon Monoxide Stats
Let’s start with some well documented statistics. Keep in mind these aren’t here to scare you, but here to show you how important this topic can be—and how dangerous it could be if left alone.
- Carbon monoxide is generated by a wide range of appliances and regularly used items, including:
- Gas furnaces and stoves
- Wood-burning stoves
- Cigarette and cigar smoke
- Propane grills
- Home and portable generators
- And more
- Carbon monoxide is colorless, odorless, and makes no discernable sound when accumulating.
- Carbon monoxide poisoning accounts for nearly 500 deaths a year in the United States.
- Carbon monoxide poisoning can be treated, but must be treated as soon as possible to avoid risks and damage to health.
How Do I Prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning?
Install carbon monoxide detectors. The absolute number one way to mitigate risks is to equip your home with carbon monoxide detectors! There should be a minimum of one detector per floor of your home including basements and attics, and the detector needs to be tested and inspected at a minimum of once every six months.- Keep up with HVAC maintenance. Gas-powered equipment should receive routine annual service in order to ensure the system burns fuel cleanly and to avoid any matter buildup that might encourage the creation of CO in your home.
- Do not use gas-powered equipment indoors. That goes for gas grills, gas space heaters, and especially
- Avoid using charcoal in the home. Some homeowners like to start up the grill or fireplace with charcoal for easier starting—don’t! Use safe alternatives like quick-start logs or safe starters instead.
What Are the Symptoms for Poisoning?
In the event that poisoning becomes possible, your top priority is to receive appropriate treatment as soon as possible. That means being able to recognize the signs:
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Chest pain
- Confusion
- “Flu-like” symptoms
If you experience any of these, and especially in combination, while fuel-using appliances are in operation in your home it’s important that you contact your medical care provider or the poison control center immediately.
Want to learn more about carbon monoxide, the risks, and how to prevent poisoning? The CDC has an extensive library of information, so be sure to check it out!
CO Prevention & HVAC Maintenance Services in Albuquerque, NM
The one thing our specialists take more seriously than the quality of our work is your family’s safety. We offer complete furnace and gas heating equipment cleaning and maintenance, so be sure to contact us in order to take advantage of our services when you need them! Remember it’s annually for AC systems, annually for furnaces, and semi-annually for heat pumps!
Give the HVAC professionals at B. Carlson a call today at 505-225-3016 to learn more about carbon monoxide!
