Information provided by UGI.
As winter approaches, UGI is strongly urging consumers who use fuel-burning heating systems to take the necessary precautions ot prevent Carbon Monoxide poisoning.
A malfunctioning heating unit can spread Carbon Monoxide throughout a home, especially if the unit hasn't been recently serviced.
In addition to natural gas appliances, other common sources of Carbon Monoxide leaks include: chimneys; unvented, fuel-burning space heaters (especially if malfunctioning); and indoor use of a charcoal barbeque grill.
Carbon Monoxide safety is particularly important during the winter when homes are closed tightly.
Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, poisonous gas that results from the incomplete burning of fuels such as wood, charcoal, gasoline, kerosene, oil, natural gas or propane.
Symptoms of CO poisoning include headache, fatigue, shortness of breath, nausea and dizziness.
Signs within a home that an appliance may be malfunctioning and producing CO include:
• Condensation on walls and windows
• House plants dying
• House pets becoming sluggish
• Chronic odors from a malfunctioning appliance
• Those living in the home are suffering from flu-like symptoms or are unusually tired.
Carbon Monoxide poisoning can be fatal. Fresh air and prompt medical attention are important if you are experiencing any symptoms of poisoning.
To prevent CO poisoning, you should:
• Make sure appliances are installed by a qualified technician and operated according to the
manufacturer’s instructions and local building codes.
• Have the chimney cleaned and inspected for leakage, debris blockages or a
buildup of creosote. If you see black stains on the outside of the chimney or flue,
it could mean pollutants, like carbon, are leaking into your home.
• Have the heating system inspected and serviced if you have not already done so.
• Confirm appropriate level of ventilation and air circulation for safe operation, particularly
if you have made modifications to your home that reduced air flow near appliances.
• Install a CO detector/alarm on each floor of a home, especially near every separate
sleeping area. CO detectors have a limited operating life. Check the manufacturer’s
instruction for related information and replacement considerations.
• Change or clean furnace filters regularly.
• Keep interior and exterior air vents clear of blockages.
As winter approaches, UGI is strongly urging consumers who use fuel-burning heating systems to take the necessary precautions ot prevent Carbon Monoxide poisoning.
A malfunctioning heating unit can spread Carbon Monoxide throughout a home, especially if the unit hasn't been recently serviced.
In addition to natural gas appliances, other common sources of Carbon Monoxide leaks include: chimneys; unvented, fuel-burning space heaters (especially if malfunctioning); and indoor use of a charcoal barbeque grill.
Carbon Monoxide safety is particularly important during the winter when homes are closed tightly.
Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, poisonous gas that results from the incomplete burning of fuels such as wood, charcoal, gasoline, kerosene, oil, natural gas or propane.
Symptoms of CO poisoning include headache, fatigue, shortness of breath, nausea and dizziness.
Signs within a home that an appliance may be malfunctioning and producing CO include:
• Condensation on walls and windows
• House plants dying
• House pets becoming sluggish
• Chronic odors from a malfunctioning appliance
• Those living in the home are suffering from flu-like symptoms or are unusually tired.
Carbon Monoxide poisoning can be fatal. Fresh air and prompt medical attention are important if you are experiencing any symptoms of poisoning.
To prevent CO poisoning, you should:
• Make sure appliances are installed by a qualified technician and operated according to the
manufacturer’s instructions and local building codes.
• Have the chimney cleaned and inspected for leakage, debris blockages or a
buildup of creosote. If you see black stains on the outside of the chimney or flue,
it could mean pollutants, like carbon, are leaking into your home.
• Have the heating system inspected and serviced if you have not already done so.
• Confirm appropriate level of ventilation and air circulation for safe operation, particularly
if you have made modifications to your home that reduced air flow near appliances.
• Install a CO detector/alarm on each floor of a home, especially near every separate
sleeping area. CO detectors have a limited operating life. Check the manufacturer’s
instruction for related information and replacement considerations.
• Change or clean furnace filters regularly.
• Keep interior and exterior air vents clear of blockages.