There are a few devices every modern home should have for the sake of safety, including smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. While you may assume that carbon monoxide isn’t a common problem, every home with heating and air services or gas appliances is at some risk. A CO detector saves lives by warning you of a problem you have no other way to identify.

Why CO Detection Is Needed

The Effects of CO

Carbon monoxide is a completely invisible and odorless gas. Because it can’t be seen or smelled, it is completely undetectable by humans — all you’ll notice are its effects. Carbon monoxide reduces the amount of oxygen in the blood, affecting your ability to function. First, it causes headaches, dizziness, tiredness and lethargy, confusion, blurry vision, and shortness of breath. As levels grow higher, it may cause vomiting, then a loss of consciousness and eventually death.

Sources of CO

Carbon monoxide can be generated by the incomplete burning of any fuel, including gas, oil, coal, and wood. This means your heating and air service appliances, such as your furnace, boiler, or water heater can create CO if they aren’t burning cleanly, as can your stove or oven. Regular maintenance can help keep your appliances burning correctly to avoid this problem, but you also need a warning system in place to let you know if something goes wrong.

How a Detector Helps

A carbon monoxide detector can be built into your smoke detector or can be a separate unit. It relies on an internal sensor — either a color-changing gel or electronic components — to identify dangerous levels of CO. When it goes off, you know to get your family outside and air out the home to get rid of the dangerous gas. It’s especially useful at night, when you’re sleeping you won’t notice symptoms before your exposure reaches dangerous levels.

If you need to install a carbon monoxide detector or heating repairs to prevent carbon monoxide generation in your home, your local heating and air service can help. Call Robinson Heating & Air Conditioning in Middletown, OH to make an appointment. With over 70 years of experience in heating and air services in Butler County, and a full team of HVAC experts available 24/7, they offer fast, competent repairs and replacements for your air conditioner, furnace, and other equipment. To get started, call (800) 397-8975 or reach out online.