Carbon Monoxide Awareness Month is a great reminder to check alarms, appliances and vents as colder weather arrives.
Before the heating season gets into full swing, now is the perfect time to check items around your home to help keep your household safe and ready for the colder months ahead. This Carbon Monoxide Awareness Month, Kansas Gas Service is reminding customers that preparation and prevention matter for home safety. Consulting a qualified technician can help you identify any issues or concerns within your home.
What is carbon monoxide?
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas that can be produced when fuel-burning appliances are not operating or venting properly. Because carbon monoxide is invisible and odorless, it can make you sick and, in some circumstances, may be deadly. That’s why a working carbon monoxide alarm can be an added layer of protection for your home.
It's also important to understand that carbon monoxide and natural gas are not the same. Kansas Gas Service adds an odorant called mercaptan for safety so it can be smelled if something is not working properly. On the other hand, carbon monoxide cannot be detected by sight, smell or taste.
Five recommended safety checks before heating season begins:
1. Test your carbon monoxide alarms
Carbon monoxide alarms should be tested regularly according to the manufacturer's instructions and installed on every level of the home, especially near sleeping areas.
2. Check batteries and expiration dates
Many people don't realize carbon monoxide alarms have a limited lifespan. Replace batteries as needed and check the manufacturer's recommendations for replacement, which are often every five to seven years.
3. Schedule annual appliance inspections
Annual maintenance can help identify potential issues before the heating season begins. Consider having fuel-burning appliances such as furnaces, water heaters and fireplaces inspected by a qualified professional.
4. Inspect vents, chimney and airflow
Check exterior vents, chimneys and flues for debris, nests or other blockages. Make sure dryer vents are clean and functioning properly, and never block ventilation openings for fuel-burning appliances.
5. Review safe use practices for seasonal equipment
As cooler weather and winter storms approach, remember that generators, outdoor cooking equipment and fuel-powered tools should never be used inside a home, garage or enclosed space. Generators should always be placed at least 20 feet away from doors, windows and vents, with exhaust directed away from buildings.
Stay Safe by Knowing the Warning Signs
While carbon monoxide cannot be detected by smell, there may be signs that a fuel-burning appliance is not operating properly. A yellow flame instead of a blue flame on a natural gas appliance or black soot around vents, burners or appliance openings may indicate a problem that should be evaluated by a qualified professional.
A Little Preparation Goes a Long Way
Getting your home ready for heating season doesn't have to be complicated. Simple checks now can help you feel more confident and safe.
As part of Carbon Monoxide Awareness Month, Kansas Gas Service encourages customers to make safety checks part of their fall routine. Taking a few minutes today can provide peace of mind for you and your family throughout the heating season.
To learn more about carbon monoxide safety and prevention, visit: kansasgasservice.com/carbonmonoxide
