Carbon monoxide is a dangerous gas that you cannot smell, taste or see. It can build up in a home or other structure from heaters, fireplaces, furnaces and other types of gas appliances that are not working properly, or when combustion gases are not being safely vented to the outside.
Potential sources of toxic CO include a clogged chimney, improperly installed kitchen range, cook top vent or clothes dryer vent, corroded or disconnected water heater vent pipe, cracked furnace heat exchanger or portable heater.
Prevent CO in your home by making sure appliances are installed by qualified professionals and operated according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Have your heating system professionally inspected and serviced regularly to ensure proper operation.
Replace furnace filters every 3 to 6 months, and make sure to properly replace the front panels or burner compartment door. Never store anything in a furnace closet that might interfere with proper airflow.
SoCal Gas will come to your property to perform a free safety check of all gas fired appliances. Call (800) 427-2200 to schedule an appointment. If you haven’t used your fireplace in a while, hire a chimney sweep to check the chimney and flue for blockages and creosote buildup.
Always have the damper open when using your natural gas fireplace. Do not block or seal any exhaust flue or duct used by a gas water heater or clothes dryer.
Never operate a portable generator or other gasoline engine powered tool in an enclosed space such as a garage or workshop. Even with open doors and windows, these spaces can trap CO and allow it to quickly build to lethal levels.
For added protection install carbon monoxide alarms throughout your home that meet the requirements of the current UL 2034 safety standard. You can buy combination smoke detector/CO alarms or purchase separately to easily install on a wall or ceiling, or plug in to any working outlet regardless of height on the wall. For more information contact your local building and fire departments.
Adriana Donofrio • deasypennerpodley Glendora (626) 926-9700 adonofrio@dppre.com
