Wednesday, November 3, 2010

If You're In Bridgeville, PA, What Is The Likeliness Of CO Colorless Odorless Toxic Fumes In Your Domicile?

By Jim Riley

A safety advisory has been released by the national government recommending that central heating systems in each home should be checked by this season's fall. Everyone is enjoined to cooperate with the said advisory in the interest of public safety.

All-important heating components from the furnace, valves, temperature controls, safety switches, and even the other electrical and mechanical components should be checked to ensure good working condition. These types of reviews would also be important in guarding against potential overheating or even fuel leaks that may result in dangerous fires or explosions. While heating contractors are not usually in the habit of including the ventilation system as part of the routine inspection, homeowners would be wise in requesting them to do so.

Contractors don't normally check the ventilation system when they perform routine inspections so households are encouraged to request for it accordingly. Flue and chimney inspection would go a long way in ensuring that there would be no problems. Doing so would give importance to the proper maintenance and care of the entire central heating system.

Leakage of potentially harmful gases into the home due to air passageways clogged by debris raises a valid safety concern. The system should be cleared of any loosened mortar, dirt, or nests. One thing to watch out for is to make sure that the ventilation system allows for the safe release of carbon monoxide outside the home. Seals and fittings on the chimney and flue should be properly checked for any perforations or holes. Rusted or corroded passages could very well result in the entry of harmful gases inside the house.

Know for its infamous reputation as a "silent killer", carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless and odorless gas that can float undetected in harmful quantities inside the home. Hence, there is every reason to avoid having the fumes from going into the house. Compounding the danger is the fact that households might not even be aware that the gas is present.

It is quite imperative that homeowners are aware of the signs of the presence of carbon monoxide fumes in the house. Carbon monoxide poisoning exhibits similar flu-like symptoms like dizziness, nausea, headaches, tiredness, or even breathing problems. Prolonged exposure to carbon monoxide can be fatal. As per CPSC statistics, there have already been as many as 60 recorded deaths due to carbon monoxide poisoning from faulty heating systems alone.

Checking of flue and chimney systems should be of paramount importance, especially in the event of a conversion of the central heating system. Soot and other debris that accumulates in the chimney over time can be a huge cause for the buildup of dangerous gases. A chimney sweep would be in order and any remaining blockages, debris, or soot should be cleared out completely.

In addition, the CPSC also recommends that chimney inspections and/or reviews be performed on a yearly basis as part of the maintenance process. This is even more important when homes decide to change the current heating system to a gas fueled one. - 42629

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