All heating appliances or systems - no matter what fuel is used - produce toxic fumes and gases as a part of the process of creating heat. One of those gases is carbon monoxide.
Carbon monoxide is sometimes called the "silent" killer because it is colorless and odorless. The symptoms of CO poisoning are similar to the flu: headaches, nausea, dizziness, irritability and confusion. The result of such poisoning can be death.
Sometimes, a blocked chimney, collapsed chimney liner or improperly installed appliance will allow the gas to seep into the home. To help protect your family and friends:
- Have appliances inspected regularly.
- Install carbon monoxide detectors in any room containing a heating unit and in each bedroom. These inexpensive devices emit an audible alarm if CO levels rise.
- Open the damper to allow smoke up the flues when the fireplace is in use.
- Never leave your car running in an attached garage, or next to an open door or window.
- Do not use portable fuel-fired heaters, charcoal grills, or gas lanterns indoors.
For more information on Carbon Monoxide and the prevention of poisoning, see the US Consumer Product Safety Commission. You might also check out their most recent product safety recall information. Recently, a Weil-McLain boiler series was recalled because of a mistake on packaging which indicated the boiler was safe to use with propane. If used with propane without the proper conversion kit, carbon monoxide can build up due to incomplete combustion.
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