Sunday, February 5, 2012

Carbon Monoxide Levels - How Much is too Much?

What is carbon monoxide?
Carbon monoxide or CO is a colorless, odorless and tasteless gas. Due to this fact, it is very hard to detect the presence of CO in your environment. It is, however, imperative that the CO levels in your home are carefully monitored. Even at relatively low levels, CO is poisonous because it rapidly accumulates in the blood thereby depleting its ability to carry oxygen. Extreme cases of CO poisoning result in death.
Where does carbon monoxide come from?
CO is a common by product of the combustion of fossil fuels. When properly installed and maintained, most fuel burning equipment (natural gas, propane or oil) will produce insignificant amounts of CO.
At what level does carbon monoxide become toxic?
How to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning have a qualified technician install and regularly inspect all fuel burning appliances regularly inspect fireplaces and chimneys to insure proper ventilation never use a gas or charcoal barbeque indoors never start a car or gas run lawnmower or snow blower in a closed garage. install a carbon monoxide detector in your home.