How Do You Detect Carbon Monoxide?

Carbon monoxide poses a very real threat to those living within your home. In order to avoid the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning, it is important that you possess an understanding of what it is and how to detect it.

What is Carbon Monoxide?

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a toxic gas with no odor or visibility, which makes it difficult to identify. It is produced by fuel-based units (such as furnaces) that are running incorrectly, thereby emitting the potentially fatal gas.

Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Pay close attention to the following symptoms. If you are experiencing any of them, call a professional immediately. It is much better to be safe than sorry.

1. You feel worse in your home than out of your home.

If you feel sick only when you are at home, it could just be an issue of poor indoor air quality (pollutants being cycled through the air). However, coupled with other symptoms, this could also indicate carbon monoxide poisoning.

2. Everyone is sick at the same time.

Typically with a virus, occupants of the home will get sick one by one. If everyone gets sick at the same time, it probably isn’t a virus. Rather, it could be CO.

3. Pets appear uncomfortable.

Did you know carbon monoxide will affect your pets as well? If you notice your pets acting ill or uncomfortable, it might be the result of carbon monoxide poisoning.

4. Discomfort increases when the furnace is running.

If you notice that you feel the most sick when your furnace or another fuel-burning device is on, don’t rule out carbon monoxide as being the source.

How Can You Detect Carbon Monoxide?

You won’t be able to smell or see carbon monoxide on your own. Instead, invest in one or more carbon monoxide detectors.

• Test your carbon monoxide detector every 6 months.
• Change your carbon monoxide detector’s batteries when you test them.
• Replace detectors every few years.

The Importance of Inspection

The best way to guard against CO poisoning is to invest in routine furnace inspections. Scheduling professional maintenance can help locate small problems before they become big ones. This can prevent even carbon monoxide poisoning.

As a licensed Ruud dealer, we can introduce you to some of the most energy-efficient and cost-effective systems currently available on the market. ABE Heating and Cooling offers great products with iron-clad warranties and superior installation services, all at manageable prices suitable for any budget. We are located in Brighton, Colorado and serve the entire Denver Metro Area, and if you would like to learn more about high-efficiency furnaces please contact us today to discuss the possibilities.