Carbon Monoxide Facts You Should Know

We’ve had a long, hot summer, and it’s finally over. Cool mornings and crisp evenings have replaced those scorching afternoons and muggy nights that plagued us in August and September. With the arrival of fall (finally!) we can now look forward to sweaters and spiced pumpkin lattés. But you should take some steps to make sure your fall experience is healthy and safe. One part of this is making your home carbon monoxide (CO) proof.

Things you should know to keep you safe from CO:

1. California law mandates a CO detector on each floor of your house. Make sure you have these installed. If you don’t have them, they’re available at Home Depot for just $20 to $50.
2. CO detectors aren’t the same thing as smoke detectors. A safe home will have both devices installed.
3. CO detectors have a sensor that will saturate and cease working after about 5 years. The sensor can’t be desaturated or replaced. You have to buy a whole new CO detector.
4. CO has many sources, but by far the most common are gas fired home appliances such as furnaces and cooking ranges. Make sure your gas appliances are in good working order. If you’re not sure, schedule a technician to come out and tune everything up for you.
5. The biggest day for CO poisoning is Thanksgiving. Your kitchen gas appliances are working their hardest. Turkey is roasting in the oven while every burner on the range is at work cooking your mashed potatoes, green beans and cranberry sauce. If you’re hosting Thanksgiving this year, make sure you run your range exhaust fan and keep a kitchen window open while you’re cooking.
6. If you’re worried about carbon monoxide levels in your home, have it tested. Air-Tro technicians carry CO monitors and can confirm if your appliances are safe or if they need servicing.

If you have more questions about carbon monoxide, call the air pros at Air-Tro at (626) 357-3535. We’ve been keeping California comfortable (and safe!) since 1969.