Housing...Inside and Out

November 17, 2000
Vent Well-Sealed Homes - Or Else

If you use storm windows, weather stripping and sealers to keep your home cozy and reduce fuel bills in winter, give special thought to indoor air quality. One possible pollutant or indoor air is carbon monoxide, produced by incomplete combustion of a solid, liquid or gaseous fuel. Gas ranges, furnaces and automobiles are all possible sources.

While breathing small amounts won't kill you, it can make you sick. Some symptoms of chronic exposure include constant headaches, fatigue and sleepiness. If you always feel headachy and worn out after a weekend at home and then recover at work on Monday morning, check your winter ventilation system.

Other potential pollutants of indoor are formaldehyde (from insulation and treated wood), radon (from the ground) and nitrogen oxides. Ventilation will alleviate many home pollution problems, but it is still worth taking these precautions:

  • Have a reputable heating company inspect your furnace, the flue and the vent connector pipe. Replace any rusted or damaged parts. If you are converting from one type of fuel to another, get a qualified technician to do the work.
  • Make sure your gas range has an exhaust fan vented to the outside. Use the fan every time you cook.
  • Vent all fuel-burning heaters to the outside.
  • Never use a gas range or oven to heat a room, even during a power outage.
  • Don't leave a pan of water on a gas flame all day to boost humidity. Use a humidifier.
  • Setting up the hibachi in the house may sound like fun, but burning charcoal generates carbon monoxide. Even in a fireplace, fumes may back up into the room.
  • When warming up your car in the garage, keep the outer door open. Carbon monoxide levels can build up quickly, and if your garage is attached, fumes can seep into the house.


Written by Dr. Francis Graham (Retired)

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