How to Protect Your Family from Carbon Monoxide

CO Detectors — The First Step In Protecting Your Family From The Dangers Of Carbon Monoxide

Nov 8, 2011
outside-of-home

An often unrealized danger that could exist in your central Florida home may be one that you cannot see. In the case of carbon monoxide (CO), you cannot smell, see or taste this toxic gas — which is why the proper installation of carbon monoxide detectors is essential to your family’s safety. Exposure to the chemical can cause minor flu-like symptoms, dizziness and headaches. In extreme cases, death can result.

There are probably more sources around your home that have the potential to produce this toxin than you are aware of, including:

  • Gas-powered generators
  • Automobiles
  • Riding lawnmowers
  • Fireplaces
  • Outdoor grills
  • Gas appliances
  • Fuel-fired generators

Because of the intrinsic nature of CO, the best way to prevent any extended periods of exposure is to invest in carbon monoxide detectors. The Consumer Product Safety Commission advises that at least one carbon monoxide detector be present on each story of your dwelling. Additional detectors should be placed near any gas appliances, and it is a good idea to put one in the garage area if it is enclosed.

Installing carbon monoxide detectors is the first step to prevention, but the second one is to have all of your home systems and appliances that use gas inspected and serviced by a professional at least annually. This type of preventive maintenance can identify any implements that possess hazards that can allow the gas to clandestinely accumulate in the home’s enclosures.

If you have questions about carbon monoxide detectors, contact one of our friendly experts at Rinaldi’s Air Conditioning. We have been serving central Florida and the Orlando area for more than 40 years.

Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  For more information about CO detectors and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.

Rinaldi’s services Orlando, Florida and the surrounding areas. Visit our website to see our special offers and get started today!