Improper Ventilation and Carbon Monoxide Leak: The Disastrous Combination
A lot of people are not familiar with the dangers of carbon monoxide because this toxic gas is impossible to see, feel or smell. Carbon monoxide is the most prevalent cause of poisoning deaths in the United States but mold and mildew are more widely known because they are unpleasant to the eyes and can cause respiratory and other allergic reactions. They can also be seen.
Carbon monoxide is more hazardous to health than most of us believe. It can cause immediate death when the volume is high and even small leaks when left unchecked for long periods of time can cause vomiting, dizziness and weakness that are at times incorrectly identified as flu.
Improper ventilation and a gas leak are a dangerous combination. A gas detector is a must for the safety oriented homeowner. These days, pollution inside the house can be more dangerous than its outdoor counterpart.
Cars and motor engines must not be left running in the garage or other enclosed places where the gas can collect to fatal levels. In addition, the air pressure inside the house is slightly lesser inside the house and fumes of cars and generators running near open doors and windows can accidentally be sucked indoors.
Installing a gas detector is your best defense against carbon monoxide and liquefied gas poisoning. We all have one or more carbon monoxide producing appliances at home. Installing a gas detector is not yet required in some states but it is a prudent decision to install them just the same. The type and number of units to purchase depends on your actual needs. Experts suggest installing them within 15 feet of from the entrance of every room that have carbon monoxide emitting appliance. Multi level houses should also have carbon monoxide detectors in every level.
Well maintained and properly used and installed appliances can still produce small amounts of the gas that will eventually disperse with the air without harm. But even small amounts can have irreversible health conditions when allowed to continue for a long time. The young and the elderly usually are the first to reveal the effects of carbon monoxide leaks thru flu like symptoms such as headache, weakness of the entire body and dizziness.
It is better to set things properly right from the start. The indoor air quality of can be greatly enhanced by including an air filtration system and roof ventilation in your plan when building a new home or doing major home repairs. Engaging the services of an HVAC and a roofing contractor to ensure proper fitting of these projects is recommended by the BBB.
The danger of carbon monoxide poisoning is present in every home and the health and safety of your family should not be put at risk. Your choice should depend on the kind of protection that you need. In most cases, what is needed is a combination of several carbon monoxide detectors. A simple gel that changes color when exposed to carbon dioxide may be enough on less frequented areas for example. On the other hand, a detector with built in smoke detector and has the capability to identify other gases in addition to carbon monoxide is more appropriate for the kitchen. The BBB receives and investigates consumer complaints about substandard detectors.
Learn more about Tom Gillece Plumbing and the menace of carbon monoxide toxic fumes in your house.
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