Carbon Monoxide … a “silent killer”!

Carbon Monoxide … a “silent killer”!

Sounds dramatic, right? Maybe not so much! Please don’t get carbon monoxide poisoning confused with the smell of propane nor something else that is burning.

Carbon Monoxide is labeled as a “silent killer” because it is an odorless, colorless, flammable and tasteless gas. As humans, we cannot even tell when we are around this gas. But make no mistake, it is very dangerous and deadly.

How is carbon monoxide gas produced?

gas logs

According to Wikipedia, “Carbon monoxide is produced from the partial oxidation of carbon-containing compounds; it forms when there is not enough oxygen to produce carbon dioxide (CO2), such as when operating a stove or an internal combustion engine in an enclosed space.

If you have anything that burns a fuel (gas, wood, etc.), carbon monoxide is formed. This includes gas stoves, gas ovens, wood burning stoves, wood and gas burning fireplaces, gas clothes dryers, gas water heaters, etc.

What can you do to protect you and your family?

The solution is very easy. Purchase a carbon monoxide detector. This device can detect and alert you of a carbon monoxide leak. This relatively inexpensive device can save lives. A carbon monoxide alarm gives you an early warning of a potential disaster.

In a situation where carbon monoxide is coming into your home, every second counts. Most alarms provide you and your family with an early warning to escape. When the alarm goes off, do not delay, get your family to fresh air.

What does carbon monoxide do to your bodies?

Carbon monoxide basically displaces the oxygen in your blood and deprives your body of oxygen. In the most basic of terms, it suffocates you. This can happen very quickly and without warning!

Where should carbon monoxide detectors be placed?

First Alert recommends that you have carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home. They also recommend that they be put outside of every bedroom door, sleeping area and common areas (for extra protection). Don’t forget that in some states, they are to be placed in “mandatory” locations (check with your state’s or local governing agency for details that you may be required to install them.

You have a carbon monoxide detector … how often do you check it?

Another important item to remember is to check your carbon monoxide detectors every month, and to change the batteries every 6 months. Carbon monoxide detectors have a useful life of 5-7 years. Be sure to check the detector that you are purchasing for the details.

Where do I get such a device?

These are readily available at your local Walmart, hardware stores, and sometimes you can even pick one up at the grocery store. You may also want to check Amazon, if you don’t feel up to going to one of the big box stores.

With a little device, lives can be saved. If you have any wood burning, gas burning or any other type of burning, please consider purchasing these devices.

How can Arctic Air help?

Do you have a gas furnace that heats your home? If so, call us today (843-821-0937), or request service online (www.arcticairinc.com/service-request) to have your furnace inspected for possible issues with the heat exchanger.

Check out these money (and life) saving options for Preventive Maintenance! https://www.arcticairincsc.com/fall-specials/

We wish you and your family a Safe and Merry Christmas!