Carbon Monoxide
Testing and Detectors
What is carbon monoxide? What are its properties? How is it formed?
The incomplete combustion of carbon containing fuels, such as natural gas, propane, coal, and gasoline produces carbon monoxide gas. Incomplete combustion occurs when there is not enough oxygen for the carbon to burn completely. The physical properties of carbon monoxide are as follows: odorless, colorless, and highly toxic gas.
How this relates to safety in your home or building.
As combustion appliances age, their components can wear, go out of adjustment, or stop working. When a gas burning furnace, stove, water heater, gas dryer, etc. is not working correctly, or during a fire, carbon monoxide can accumulate in your home or building. In addition to the primary burner for the appliance, the pilot lights and vents can also be the source of CO. Carbon monoxide can also migrate to your home or building from a home or other sources near you. If any of these were to happen, the results can be very serious or fatal.
What are the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning?
The symptoms of carbon vary with the concentration of carbon monoxide, the length of exposure, and other physical and physiological factors. If you feel you’ve been exposed, contact your doctor immediately.
How can I tell when carbon monoxide gas is present?
Since the gas is colorless, odorless and tasteless, you will not know until the poisonous gas causes physiological symptoms unless you have a properly located and functioning carbon monoxide detector and alarm.
What are the types of CO detectors and alarms?
Call NWHC to get expert service or advice on this topic. Ideally, the expert or certified technician that provides this service for you will do so based on observations made on site, including, the layout and construction of your home and the location of fuel burning appliances within and near it.
Generally, these alarms detect carbon monoxide and give an audible alarm so you can leave the building immediately. A less common type of detector gives visual indicators that change colors, etc. in the presence of carbon monoxide.
The main two points regarding carbon monoxide in homes:
1. Carbon monoxide alarms must be placed in the correct places in your home or building and must be working properly for the circumstances there.
2. Get expert service and advice to make sure your home or building stays protected.
