How to Guide
25
Potential Sources of CO in the Home (Continued)
How Can I Protect My Family From CO Poisoning?
A CO Alarm is an excellent means of protection. It monitors the air and sounds a loud alarm before Carbon
Monoxide levels become threatening for average, healthy adults.
A CO Alarm is not a substitute for proper maintenance of home appliances.
To help prevent CO problems and reduce the risk of CO poisoning:
• Clean chimneys and flues yearly. Keep them free of debris, leaves, and nests for proper air flow.
Also, have a professional check for rust and corrosion, cracks, or separations. These conditions can
prevent proper air movement and cause back-drafting. Never “cap” or cover a chimney in any way that
would block air flow.
• Test and maintain all fuel-burning equipment annually. Many local gas or oil companies and HVAC
companies oer appliance inspections for a nominal fee.
• Make regular visual inspections of all fuel-burning appliances. Check appliances for excessive rust
and scaling. Also check the flame on the burner and pilot lights. The flame should be blue. A yellow
flame means fuel is not being burned completely and CO may be present. Keep the blower door on the
furnace closed. Use vents or fans when they are available on all fuel-burning appliances. Make sure
appliances are vented to the outside. Do not grill or barbecue indoors, or in garages or onscreen porches.
• Check for exhaust back-flow from CO sources. Check the draft hood on an operating furnace for a
back-draft. Look for cracks on furnace heat exchangers.
• Check the house or garage on the other side of shared wall.
• Keep windows and doors open slightly. If you suspect that CO is escaping into your home,
open a window or a door. Opening windows and doors can significantly decrease CO levels.