Wednesday, November 3, 2010

Can Plumbing Repair End The Threat Of Carbon Monoxide Gas In Your Domicile?

By Florine Estrada

Gas leaks are one of the dangers of modern living. Our obsession with energy efficiency has led to the increasing use of insulation which often results to inadequate ventilation inside our homes and offices. Carbon monoxide and combustible gas leaks are two of the most common gas types that can inadvertently seep out and cause serious safety and health concerns.

Inadequate ventilation on kerosene and gas heaters, leaking furnaces and chimneys, wood stoves and all home devices that use fossil fuels are possible sources of carbon monoxide. Incomplete oxidation during combustion can cause high concentration of this toxic gas in indoor air. Because it is colorless, odorless and tasteless, carbon monoxide can do much harm before you are aware of it.

It can be fatal at very high concentrations. But, even at low levels of exposure, it can cause flu like symptoms including headaches, nausea, fatigue, dizziness and disorientation. It is necessary to make sure that combustion equipments are properly adjusted and maintained.

The way things are, indoor pollution can be more dangerous than outdoor air pollution. Installing a gas detector is not mandatory in some states but buying one is the prudent choice in most cases. Vent free fireplaces are prohibited in some states because they often leak. You should seriously consider installing a gas detector when you are using heating devices using fossil fuels and when your house is near a power plant, a refinery or a landfill.

Gas detectors are affordable and easy to install. There are some models that combine a smoke and fire detector in one unit. You should resist buying the cheapest gas detector available but buying the most expensive one does not guarantee its durability and functionality either. Choose one that has a long battery life and a dependable display that tells when the batteries are low.

Small amount of combustible gas leak inside your home might not cause an explosion but it can result in health problems. Installing a gas detector is your best protection against carbon monoxide and combustible gas leakage. It is not yet compulsory in some states but it is a wise decision to buy one when you have heating appliances that uses fossil fuel as its energy source.

A gas detector is also a must when you live near hazard areas like a landfill, a power plant or a refinery. There are devices that combine a smoke and gas detector in a single piece of equipment. Experts suggest that gas detectors should be placed within 15 feet from the door of every room so it might be necessary to put up several of these devices when you live on a large or multi level house.

You should immediately leave the building when you hear a gas leak alarm. If you cannot go outside for whatever reason, you should open all windows and stand besides the opening to inhale fresh air. Dial 911 as soon as you are out of the building and have the leak checked by the gas company or the emergency services immediately. Always play it safe when the health and safety of your family are concerned. Installing a gas detector is one sure step towards attaining that goal. - 42534

About the Author:

No comments:

Post a Comment