What is Carbon Monoxide

The Answers You Need to Know

Carbon Monoxide poisoning kills 400 Americans every year and sends 20,000 to the hospital, according to the CDC. 

What is CO?
  1. A colorless, Odorless, Tasteless, Non-Irritating Toxic Gas.
  2. It is a combustion by-product formed by incomplete combustion of fuels such as oil, propane, natural gas and wood. Two major contributors are the heating & water heater. 
  3. It doesn't stratify, can be located high as well as low in a room (slightly lighter than air).
  4. Often referred to as the "Silent Killer".

1) How does CO affect the Human Body?

1) CO is absorbed into the bloodstream, taking place of oxygen. This will reduce the amount of oxygen available, affecting all major organs.
2) Extended exposure to low or brief exposure to high levels of CO will lead to unconsciousness or death.
3) Tissues with the highest oxygen needs are most effected by CO including, the brain, heart and other large muscles.
4) Early signs of CO poisoning are: Headaches, Nausea, Dizziness, Shortness of Breath and Confusion.

Everyone is at risk of this silent killer.

What appliance in your home or building could cause CO poisoning?

CO in a building or home can be caused by heating equipment, stove, water heaters, automobiles, fire places or anything that has combustion. Although products of combustion are exhausted by means of a chimney or flue its important to have them inspected regularly. Our service technicians  are trained to identify such potential dangers.

How can you ensure you are safe from this silent killer?

Install a battery-operated or battery back-up CO detector in your home or place of business and check or replace the battery when you change the time on your clocks each spring and fall. Place your detector where it will alert you if it alarms. Consider buying a detector with a digital readout. This detector can tell you the highest level of CO concentration in your home or business in addition to alarming. Replace your CO detector every five years.
Have your heating system, water heater, and any other gas, oil, or coal burning appliances serviced by a qualified technician every year.
Never patch a vent pipe with tape, gum, or something else. This kind of patch can make CO build up in your home or business.
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