Carbon monoxide, or CO, is a toxic gas with no color, odor or taste. Exposure can cause injury or death very quickly, with the only symptoms often mimicking other common health issues. A carbon monoxide detector is a reliable warning system that should be used in every home all year long.
When you think of carbon monoxide poisoning, you may remember news stories in which a malfunctioning furnace or space heater caused the trouble. While it is true that furnaces and heating devices are often the culprit of carbon monoxide leaks, they are far from being the only common source. Cooking appliances, yard equipment, vehicles, charcoal fires, water heaters and dryers can all emit carbon monoxide at dangerous levels any time of the year, even under normal conditions.
Carbon monoxide detectors work by continuously monitoring the concentration of carbon monoxide in the surrounding air. When unsafe levels are detected, the unit sounds an alarm. Residents can evacuate promptly and call for help before the unthinkable occurs. Detectors can be found in most hardware and home improvement stores and can be purchased as battery operated or plug in models. They should be installed on each floor of the home, especially near bedrooms and natural-gas powered appliances.
There is no "safe" time of year for carbon monoxide threats. Considering that hundreds of deaths and thousands of injuries due to carbon monoxide are reported on a yearly basis, carbon monoxide detectors are a small and worthwhile investment to keep your family safe the whole year through.
Russell's Heating and Cooling has been providing outstanding HVAC service in the Hampton Roads area since 1977. For more information on carbon monoxide detectors or to schedule our award-winning HVAC service, contact us today.
Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about carbon monoxide detectors and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
Russell’s Heating & Cooling services the Chesapeake, Virginia and the surrounding areas. Visit our website to see our special offers and get started today!
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