Gas leaks are one of the dangers of modern living. Our obsession with energy efficiency has led to the increasing use of insulation which often results to inadequate ventilation inside our homes and offices. Carbon monoxide and combustible gas leaks are two of the most common gas types that can inadvertently seep out and cause serious safety and health concerns.
Inadequate ventilation on kerosene and gas heaters, leaking furnaces and chimneys, wood stoves and all home devices that use fossil fuels are possible sources of carbon monoxide. Incomplete oxidation during combustion can cause high concentration of this toxic gas in indoor air. Because it is colorless, odorless and tasteless, carbon monoxide can do much harm before you are aware of it.
Large combustible can easily be detected because of its odor but minute seepage can easily combine with the air and be harder to detect. Prolonged exposure to this gas can also result to the same health problems as carbon monoxide poisoning. Combustible gas leaks are more common, about 80 percent of our homes and offices has varying degrees of gas leakage but very little is being dome to correct it because the general public is not aware of its dangers.
The way things are, indoor pollution can be more dangerous than outdoor air pollution. Installing a gas detector is not mandatory in some states but buying one is the prudent choice in most cases. Vent free fireplaces are prohibited in some states because they often leak. You should seriously consider installing a gas detector when you are using heating devices using fossil fuels and when your house is near a power plant, a refinery or a landfill.
Combustible gas leak is a more common but underrated health hazard at home. Contamination levels vary but a recent study showed that 8 out of 10 homes have some sort of gas leakage. Large combustible gas leaks can be smelled and therefore easy to detect. But small leaks can mix with the indoor air and might be harder to be aware of.
Your gas detector should be able to detect all possible gasses from various sources, including carbon monoxide and combustible gas leaks. It should also be easy to operate and has wireless controls for convenient use.
A gas detector is also a must when you live near hazard areas like a landfill, a power plant or a refinery. There are devices that combine a smoke and gas detector in a single piece of equipment. Experts suggest that gas detectors should be placed within 15 feet from the door of every room so it might be necessary to put up several of these devices when you live on a large or multi level house.
A gas detector is still not mandatory in some states but you should seriously consider buying one for safety and health reasons. It is a small investment to counter some of the hazards of modern day living. It is better to have it and not need it than to need it but not have it. This safety device might one day save you and your family’s life, making it your wisest investment.
Learn more about the truth and the Hazard of carbon monoxide fumes in your environment.
categories: carbon monoxide,poisoning,gas,plumbing,safety,households