Carbon Monoxide

When gas is burned completely, the resulting products are carbon dioxide (the same chemical that causes bubbles in a soda) and water vapor. Both products are usually harmless. Like most other fuels, the potential for carbon monoxide occurs when natural gas is burned incompletely.

Incomplete combustion can result in carbon monoxide which can be dangerous. That’s why it is important to have gas appliances routinely inspected and serviced to ensure proper operation, including a check of vents and flues.

Another factor that may affect the safe operation of vents and flues is the availability of make-up air. Think of your home as a box. Just like humans, appliances need fresh air. You can’t expect flue products to go “up and out the chimney” if you don’t allow air in. This principle applies to any vented device (e.g., fireplaces and exhaust fans). The flue products themselves are not a problem as long as they are replaced by fresh air.

Without adequate ventilation, complete combustion will not occur. Instead of carbon dioxide being produced, carbon monoxide will be generated—a potentially deadly situation.

If cold, fresh air infiltrates a home by chance, you call it a draft. But, if you allow air to enter the home (remember the box) in an unheated area in the vicinity of the furnace, you can save money and be more comfortable as well. This is why the highest efficiency rated furnaces have the make-up air piped directly into the combustion area. In this way, the natural gas will be burned completely and safe products will be created.

Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

• Flu-like symptoms that go away when you leave the house.
  
• Severe cases cause nausea and vomiting, shortness of breath, convulsions and unconsciousness.
  
• Mild cases cause sleepiness, irritability and an inability to concentrate.
  
• Rapid heartbeat or tightening of the chest, or both.

SAFETY TIP: Make sure carbon monoxide detectors are installed in your living
and sleeping areas and test them per manufacturer’s instructions.

What To Do If You Suspect Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

• Leave the area immediately.
  
• Call 911 or your local fire department immediately.
• Don’t return until emergency personnel tell you it’s safe.