Carbon Monoxide

Carbon Monoxide in the Home – A Homeowner’s Guide to Understanding and Preventing CO Poisoning

What is Carbon Monoxide?

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas that is often called the “silent killer.” Unlike carbon dioxide (CO₂), which is naturally present in the air, carbon monoxide is dangerous even in very small amounts.

It is produced whenever fuels like gas, wood, coal, propane, or oil are burned.
Because it’s invisible and has no smell, people often don’t realize they are being exposed until symptoms appear.
Exposure to high levels of carbon monoxide can be life-threatening within minutes.

Where Does Carbon Monoxide Come From in the Home?

Any appliance or system that burns fuel can be a source of carbon monoxide, especially if it’s not vented properly. Common sources include:

Gas stoves, ovens, and fireplaces
Furnaces, boilers, and water heaters
Wood stoves and space heaters
Clothes dryers that run on gas
Vehicles left running in attached garages
Blocked chimneys or flues that prevent proper exhaust

Even small leaks from these sources can allow dangerous levels of CO to build up indoors.

Why is Carbon Monoxide Dangerous?

Carbon monoxide is harmful because it prevents your blood from carrying oxygen. When inhaled, CO binds to red blood cells more strongly than oxygen, leading to oxygen deprivation throughout the body.

Mild exposure symptoms: headache, dizziness, nausea, shortness of breath, confusion, fatigue (often mistaken for the flu).
Serious exposure: loss of consciousness, brain damage, heart complications, or death.
Long-term exposure to lower levels: can cause chronic headaches, memory problems, and mood changes.

Children, the elderly, and people with heart or lung conditions are more vulnerable, but anyone can be affected quickly.

Why Should Homeowners Care About CO?

Carbon monoxide is one of the most dangerous indoor hazards because it’s completely undetectable without proper equipment.

CO incidents spike in the winter when homes are sealed up tight and heating systems are running.
Many poisoning cases occur at night, when families are asleep and unaware of symptoms.
Because CO poisoning can mimic other illnesses, it often goes unnoticed until it’s too late.

Every home with fuel-burning appliances should take precautions against CO exposure.

What if Carbon Monoxide is Present in My Home?

If you ever suspect carbon monoxide is in your home:

Get outside immediately and call emergency services.
Do not re-enter until the source has been identified and the home has been ventilated.
Have a licensed professional inspect and repair the faulty appliance or venting system.

Even small or moderate levels of CO exposure require serious attention.

Tips for Preventing Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Install carbon monoxide detectors on every floor of your home and near sleeping areas. Test them monthly and replace batteries regularly.
Have your heating system, fireplace, and gas appliances inspected annually by a qualified technician.
Ensure chimneys and vents are clear of debris, nests, or snow buildup.
Never run a vehicle, generator, or grill inside a garage, basement, or enclosed space — even with doors open.
Use space heaters with proper ventilation and never while sleeping.
Do not ignore symptoms: if multiple family members feel unwell in the same area of the home, suspect CO.

The Bottom Line

Carbon monoxide is a serious and potentially deadly indoor hazard, but with proper precautions, it can be prevented.

Detectors save lives — every home should have them.
Annual maintenance of appliances and heating systems is essential.
Awareness and quick action can prevent tragedy.

A Home Health Inspection that includes checking for CO risks and verifying proper ventilation gives you peace of mind that your family is protected from this invisible threat.