To help keep your gas appliances operating safely and efficiently, your local gas company or a licensed, qualified professional should check your gas appliances every year. By not performing annual maintenance you may experience inefficient appliance operation, and in some cases, dangerous exposure to carbon monoxide.
Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, tasteless gas that is formed when carbon-based fuels (such as kerosene, gasoline, propane, natural gas, oil, charcoal or wood) are burned with inadequate amounts of oxygen, creating a condition known as incomplete combustion. In the case of home gas appliances, this can be caused by improper installation, poor maintenance, or other appliance misuse or failure.
Signs that may indicate the presence of carbon monoxide include:
* A yellow, large and unsteady gas appliance burner flame (with the exception of decorative gas log appliances).
* An unusual pungent odor when the appliance is operating. This may indicate the creation of aldehydes, a by-product of incomplete combustion.
* Unexplained nausea, drowsiness and flu-like symptoms.
If you suspect carbon monoxide is present in your home:
* If safe to do so, immediately turn off the suspected gas appliance.
* Evacuate the premises and call 911.
* Seek medical attention if anyone in the home experiences possible carbon monoxide poisoning symptoms.
* Contact your locak gas company or a licensed, qualified professional immediately to have the appliance inspected.
* Don’t use the suspected gas appliance until it has been inspected, serviced and determined to be safe by your local gas company or a licensed, qualified professional.
Comments(2)