Carbon Monoxide Safety

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas that can be produced whenever fuels such as natural gas, propane, wood, charcoal, oil, or gasoline don't burn completely.

Unlike natural gas, carbon monoxide has no smell, which is why it's important to have working carbon monoxide detectors in your home.

Fortunately, carbon monoxide incidents are rare and are often preventable through proper installation, regular maintenance, and safe operation of fuel-burning appliances.

What Causes Carbon Monoxide?

Carbon monoxide can be produced when fuel-burning appliances don't receive enough oxygen or aren't vented properly.

Possible causes include:

• Poorly maintained appliances

• Blocked or damaged vents or chimneys

• Improper appliance installation

• Operating fuel-burning equipment in enclosed spaces

Regular maintenance greatly reduces the risk of carbon monoxide buildup.

🛡️ Safety Is Included
Every natural gas appliance installed by YCNGA comes with a free carbon monoxide detector. It's just one of the ways we help keep your home safe long after the installation is complete.

Warning Signs of Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide itself cannot be seen or smelled, but there may be warning signs that an appliance isn't operating properly.

Watch for:

• Yellow or unsteady burner flames (most natural gas appliances should have blue flames)

• Soot or discoloration around vents, chimneys, or appliances

• Excessive moisture or condensation on windows

• Stuffy or stale indoor air

• Exhaust odors inside the home

If you notice these signs, stop using the affected appliance and have it inspected by a qualified contractor.

Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Carbon monoxide replaces oxygen in the bloodstream, making it difficult for your body to function normally.

Some people notice they feel better after leaving the building and worse when they return.

If multiple people in the same home develop flu-like symptoms at the same time, carbon monoxide could be the cause.

What Should You Do?

If your carbon monoxide detector sounds an alarm or you suspect carbon monoxide is present:

1. Move everyone outdoors or to fresh air immediately.

2. Call 911 if anyone is experiencing symptoms.

3. Contact a qualified contractor to inspect the suspected appliance.

4. Do not use the appliance again until it has been inspected and determined to be safe.

Prevent Carbon Monoxide in Your Home

Install Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Install carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home and outside sleeping areas. Test them regularly and replace batteries as recommended by the manufacturer.

Schedule Annual Maintenance

Have all fuel-burning appliances inspected each year by a qualified heating or plumbing contractor.

Keep Vents Clear

Make sure appliance vents, flues, and chimneys remain free of debris, nests, snow, or other obstructions.

Use Appliances Properly

• Never use a gas range or oven to heat your home.

• Never burn charcoal indoors.

• Never use outdoor grills or generators inside a home, garage, or enclosed space.

• Follow the manufacturer's instructions for all fuel-burning appliances.

Practice Garage Safety

Never leave a vehicle running inside an attached garage, even if the garage door is open.

Carbon Monoxide vs. Natural Gas

Carbon monoxide and natural gas are not the same thing.

• Natural gas has a distinctive rotten egg odor added so leaks can be detected.

• Carbon monoxide has no color, smell, or taste, making carbon monoxide detectors your best line of defense.

Knowing the difference can help you respond appropriately in an emergency.