Jacksonville and Sarasota Real Estate BlogRecently posted or modified blog posts in the category - Home Improvementhttps://www.floridarealestatecentral.com/blog/Copyright FloridaRealEstateCentral.com2022-03-09T09:10:44-07:00tag:floridarealestatecentral.com,2012-09-20:25277Indoor Humidity Guide: How to Manage Your Home's Humidity
<img src="/userFiles/1782/image/intro-indoor-humidity-regulation.jpg" style="float: right; padding: 10px 0 10px 10px; width: 400px;" alt="How to Regulate Humidity Indoors" />When people think about the comfort of their homes, they often focus on temperature instead of humidity. However, humidity plays a significant role in how people experience temperature, and it has other effects as well. Humidity that is too high or low can cause problems in the home and health issues for the people living in it. Controlling the humidity is an integral part of the home's heating, cooling, and ventilation management. Read on to learn how to identify indoor humidity problems and create a plan to solve them.
Table of Contents
<a href="https://www.floridarealestatecentral.com/#what_is_relative_humidity?">What Is Relative Humidity?</a>
<a href="https://www.floridarealestatecentral.com/#what_is_the_ideal_home_humidity?">What Is the Ideal Home Humidity?</a>
<a href="https://www.floridarealestatecentral.com/#how_to_monitor_home_humidity">How to Monitor Home Humidity</a>
<a href="https://www.floridarealestatecentral.com/#why_is_my_house_so_humid?">Why Is My House So Humid?</a>
<a href="https://www.floridarealestatecentral.com/#signs_of_too-high_humidity">Signs of Too-High Humidity</a>
<a href="https://www.floridarealestatecentral.com/#how_high_humidity_affects_your_health">How High Humidity Affects Your Health</a>
<a href="https://www.floridarealestatecentral.com/#effects_of_high_humidity_on_your_house">Effects of High Humidity on Your House</a>
<a href="#how_to_decrease_a_home's_humidity_in_summer">How to Decrease a Home's Humidity in Summer</a>
<a href="https://www.floridarealestatecentral.com/#portable_and_whole-house_dehumidifiers">Portable and Whole-House Dehumidifiers</a>
<a href="https://www.floridarealestatecentral.com/#how_to_reduce_humidity_naturally_without_a_dehumidifier">How to Reduce Humidity Naturally Without a Dehumidifier</a>
<a href="https://www.floridarealestatecentral.com/#how_to_control_indoor_condensation">How to Control Indoor Condensation</a>
<a href="https://www.floridarealestatecentral.com/#what_causes_low_humidity?">What Causes Low Humidity?</a>
<a href="https://www.floridarealestatecentral.com/#signs_of_too-low_humidity">Signs of Too-Low Humidity</a>
<a href="https://www.floridarealestatecentral.com/#how_low_humidity_affects_your_health">How Low Humidity Affects Your Health</a>
<a href="https://www.floridarealestatecentral.com/#effects_of_low_humidity_on_your_house">Effects of Low Humidity on Your House</a>
<a href="https://www.floridarealestatecentral.com/#how_to_deal_with_low_humidity_in_winter">How to Deal With Low Humidity in Winter</a>
<a href="https://www.floridarealestatecentral.com/#portable_and_whole-house_humidifiers">Portable and Whole-House Humidifiers</a>
<a href="https://www.floridarealestatecentral.com/#how_to_increase_humidity_without_buying_a_humidifier">How to Increase Humidity Without Buying a Humidifier</a>
<a href="https://www.floridarealestatecentral.com/#keep_your_home_healthy_and_comfortable">Keep Your Home Healthy and Comfortable</a>
<a href="https://www.floridarealestatecentral.com/#additional_reading">Additional Reading</a>
What Is Relative Humidity?
Humidity is the amount of water vapor in the air. Most people think of humidity in terms of a percentage. This percentage is known as relative humidity because it is estimated relative to the maximum amount of humidity possible at any given temperature. Relative humidity affects the way that people feel indoor and outdoor temperatures, especially heat. On a hot day, high humidity can make people think that the temperature is even hotter than it is. Humidity affects people's ability to cool down by sweating, which is why high humidity can be difficult to manage or even dangerous.
What Is the Ideal Home Humidity?
In most cases, the ideal relative humidity for a home is 30 to 50 percent. Humidity rates higher than 50 percent can trigger mold growth because the ventilation systems in the home may not be able to evaporate it quickly enough. Humidity rates below 30 percent also present a problem that requires a solution. Very low humidity can cause health problems for people and structural damage to the home. HVAC systems are designed to help maintain an ideal relative humidity range, but proper sizing, installation, and use are key. Homeowners may need to augment the system in some cases.
How to Monitor Home Humidity
There are ways that homeowners can determine if the humidity level is a problem, but they may need a sensor to determine the extent of the problem. Homeowners can buy smart thermostats that contain a sensor to measure and report relative humidity. These tools cost between $50 and $200, and they are designed to control the home's HVAC system as well. Otherwise, people may consider buying a humidistat or hygrometer for $10 to $20. These are small devices intended to measure humidity, which can be placed almost anywhere in the home. Homeowners can buy these products online or at <a href="https://crosscountrymovingcompany.net/improve-your-future-home/" target="_blank">home improvement</a> stores.
Why Is My House So Humid?
When homeowners begin to suspect that their homes have too much humidity, they should start by exploring the possible causes. In most cases, high humidity is affected by some combination of high humidity already present in the region's climate, plus an inability of the home's existing systems to manage it. Ideally, air conditioning systems exist to extract humidity from the indoor air. However, if the system is too large for the home, it may cool the temperatures and shut off before removing enough moisture.
In some cases, the presence of humidity is a larger problem that homeowners have to manage. Regions with high humidity will naturally have homes with higher humidity, absent some form of moisture management. Additionally, people who live in areas with a lot of groundwater may notice that it seeps in through cracks in the foundation, spreading to the walls. Even running a lot of baths or showers, or cooking often in the kitchen, can lead to higher relative humidity levels in these rooms. Insufficient ventilation, or a failure to use it effectively, could make these problems worse.
Signs of Too-High Humidity
<img src="/userFiles/1782/image/signs-of-too-high-humidity-indoor-humidity-regulation.jpg" style="float: right; padding: 10px 0 10px 10px; width: 400px;" alt="What are the Signs of High Humidity Indoors?" />There are a few signs that the humidity is too high:
Condensation buildup on windows and walls
Musty, mildewy, or moldy odors
Rooms that feel hot and muggy
Fog on window panes, independent of outside temperatures
Higher incidence of allergies
Moldy or rotting wood
How High Humidity Affects Your Health
Although high humidity may seem like largely an issue of comfort or structural integrity for the home, it presents a number of health concerns as well. People should watch out for the following as indicators that they may need to find a better way to manage their home's humidity:
Regular problems with dehydration, even in cooler temperatures
Dizziness, weakness, or other signs of heat exhaustion
Skin problems, such as dermatitis or eczema
New diagnosis of asthma, or difficulty managing an existing condition
Congestion or cold-like symptoms
Difficulty sleeping
One reason that high humidity often contributes to a greater incidence of allergies and asthma is the way that it affects indoor air quality. Due to imperfect ventilation, indoor air quality is often worse than the air outdoors. Homeowners do not use ventilation effectively, contaminants can create more issues. Humidity often causes products with high levels of VOCs to off-gas more readily, releasing pollutants that can make people feel sick, stuffy, or lightheaded. Although managing moisture in the home may not immediately solve all of these problems, it is relatively simple and can help rule out other possible causes.
Effects of High Humidity on Your House
High humidity can have severe effects on the home, even if they do not become apparent immediately. In many cases, moisture takes time to accumulate, and homeowners may not be aware of it because much of the damage occurs in places that are difficult to see. Much like other types of water damage, humidity can be devastating to a structure. Common problems include:
Accumulation of mold or mildew behind the walls
Rotting wood, especially in the house's framing
Swelling and contracting of the structure, which could lead to cracks and sinking
Damaged belongings, particularly furniture and flooring
Cracked or peeling paint and wallpaper
Pest infestations that are difficult to prevent or remove
For short periods of time, the accumulation of moisture in the structure may be relatively simple to fix. Over time, water damage can require repairing or replacing significant parts of the home. For example, a foundation that contracts and breaks due to high humidity makes leaks from underground more likely. People may notice a higher incidence of mold or <a href="https://dameasyfloodbarriers.com/a/blog/winter-basement-flooding" target="_blank">basement flooding</a> as a result.
How to Decrease a Home's Humidity in Summer
For most homeowners, decreasing humidity in the summer is the most important task. By using a variety of methods, including dehumidifiers and other approaches, homeowners may notice an improvement in their electricity bills as well.
Portable and Whole-House Dehumidifiers
<img src="/userFiles/1782/image/portable-dehumidifier-indoor-humidity-regulation.jpg" style="float: right; padding: 10px 0 10px 10px; width: 400px;" alt="Advantages of Using Portable Dehumidifiers" />One of the simplest and most practical solutions to removing moisture from the home is to purchase and install a dehumidifier. Homeowners can choose between portable models and products that are designed to work with a central HVAC system. Simply put, a dehumidifier extracts moisture from the air surrounding it. In most cases, it has a collection unit for condensation that users can empty on a regular basis.
When using these systems, users should ensure that it has the proper amount of airflow on all sides and operate it in an area that is generally clean and free of debris. Whole-home dehumidifiers operate in a similar way, but they are designed to turn on and off automatically to go with the HVAC system. They may also have a built-in drainage system so that users do not have to remove the condensation manually.
How to Reduce Humidity Naturally Without a Dehumidifier
Although some homes may require a dehumidifier to maintain a proper humidity level, it is not always necessary. Homeowners may want to try other methods first, particularly if they have a modern HVAC system. Air conditioners were originally invented to control humidity, not temperature. The positive effect on temperature was a beneficial side effect. As a general rule, air conditioners and heat pumps remove moisture and recycle the conditioned air back through the home. Proper sizing is essential. A unit that is too large cannot extract enough water before turning off at a lower temperature. As such, homeowners should aim to install a unit that matches their home's cooling load.
Even without an air conditioner, people can still lower the home's humidity level. The use of <a href="https://streampeak.com.sg/products/desiccants/" target="_blank">desiccants</a> is a very popular method of controlling a room's humidity level. Regular use of exhaust fans in the kitchen, bathrooms, and laundry room can vent the excess moisture produced from activities in these rooms. Sealing air leaks around the structure and fixing cracks in the basement can prevent moisture from getting in. Similarly, homeowners may want to consider cleaning out their gutters and ensuring that the downspouts point away from the home. Proper grading of the property also helps to ensure that outdoor precipitation does not turn into indoor moisture. Installing and maintaining a sump pump can minimize the damage from storms and prevent moisture accumulation in the basement.
How to Control Indoor Condensation
Cool surfaces in a warm room lead to condensation, which can increase the humidity. Homeowners can manage this by reducing the likelihood of condensation collecting on surfaces inside the home. There are several methods that can help, including:
Insulating cool-water pipes in the plumbing
Installing new windows with multiple panes and air between to reduce condensation from temperature differences outside
Installing storm doors and windows to keep precipitation out
Adding caulking and weatherstripping to doors and windows
Covering pots while cooking and promptly cleaning up spills can also decrease moisture production and the resulting condensation.
What Causes Low Humidity?
Some regions are drier than others, which calls for a different type of humidity management. The changing seasons often affect relative humidity. In most cases, winter is associated with lower levels of humidity. When the air is colder, it is less able to retain moisture. As such, water naturally present in the air is more likely to show up as condensation rather than humidity. People living in regions that have dry winters, or dry months in autumn or spring, may notice the effects of low humidity the most.
In addition, the use of heating systems affects humidity levels inside the home. Central, forced-air heating is a common cause of dry air in the home. Systems that rely on combustion tend to burn up the excess moisture in the air as part of the process for creating heat. The continuous cycling of air throughout the home, as a major function of the HVAC system, ensures that the air maintains a relatively consistent humidity in all rooms of the house. Although other types of heating that rely on combustion can cause the same problems, they may be focused in one room instead of the entire home.
Signs of Too-Low Humidity
Low humidity causes a variety of problems, including:
Chips in the interior paint
Wood that splits or cracks as it dries in flooring, furniture, and millwork
Static electricity, commonly present near carpets and other soft surfaces
Health issues related to dry air
How Low Humidity Affects Your Health
<img src="/userFiles/1782/image/how-low-humidity-affects-health-indoor-humidity-regulation.jpg" style="float: right; padding: 10px 0 10px 10px; width: 400px;" alt="Low Indoor Humidity Health Effects" />For most people, low humidity manifests as cold-like symptoms. Mucous membranes are intended to remain relatively moist, which is more difficult to manage in an area with exceptionally dry air. It is common to notice sore sinuses or a bloody nose after spending time on an airplane or in a hospital, for example, because these places maintain low humidity levels by design. Similarly, when living in a home with low humidity, people can suffer from the following concerns:
Dry skin
Itchy or dry eyes
Sinuses that feel dry or tight
Increased sneezing
Chapped lips
Dry mouth or throat
Over time, these problems can cause those mucous membranes to become inflamed as a result of the dryness. Swollen sinuses are a common cause of chronic headaches. In some cases, the dry air makes it easier for infectious diseases to spread. Someone sneezes, the air droplets dry out, and the virus moves in an aerosol form. People who notice these problems may want to consider adding humidity to the home through different methods.
Effects of Low Humidity on Your House
Low humidity can also cause damage to various parts of the home. Most components in a structure are designed to handle moderate humidity. Too much or too little can change their composition, which affects how they can support the house. Wood shows one of the most common and visible effects of low humidity. As the natural moisture in the wood evaporates, each piece may contract to accommodate a smaller mass. Wood flooring that has been nailed down could split at the side of the nail. People may notice gaps between boards or small cracks that grow larger. The effect is similar for things like paint and wallpaper, although they tend to be less severe.
Low humidity also prompts people to make different decisions in the way that they heat their homes. Air with low moisture content tends to feel cooler. As a result, people may notice that dry air in the home makes them more likely to turn on the heat as a way to warm up. Unfortunately, most heating methods also contribute to low humidity. This process can become a repeating cycle where people feel the effects of low humidity and then take actions that decrease humidity even further.
How to Deal With Low Humidity in Winter
Dealing with low humidity in winter offers numerous benefits. Besides providing better protection for the structure and the health of people living in the home, maintaining an ideal humidity can also lower utility bills.
Portable and Whole-House Humidifiers
Humidifiers use a fan to turn water into vapor that can add humidity to the air. Portable humidifiers are available online and in a variety of stores for $20 or more, depending on the size and features. These devices are easy to use and ideal for increasing humidity in a specific room. Humidifiers come in cool and warm mist varieties, depending on the room and the need to protect residents from steam heat. Users must clean out the reservoir regularly to prevent the buildup of mold or other contaminants.
Homeowners should take care to avoid using a humidifier that is sized improperly for the space. Humidifiers that add too much moisture can lead to accumulation on the walls or other issues related to condensation. New humidifier users may want to start with a smaller model or consider hiring a professional to install a whole-house humidifier that is the right size.
How to Increase Humidity Without Buying a Humidifier
Although buying and using a humidifier is usually the easiest way for people to increase low humidity in the home, there are alternatives. Anything that turns water into water vapor can increase the humidity, even if it is limited to a particular room. For example, homeowners who are trying to raise the relative humidity may want to try the following:
Boiling pots of water on the stove
Opening the bathroom door while taking a shower or bath
Leaving hot water in a bathtub for a few minutes after bathing
Adding indoor plants, especially those that require regular watering
Placing bowls of water on a windowsill to evaporate in the sun
Allowing clothes to air dry instead of running them in the dryer can increase humidity while simultaneously decreasing the effects of a dryer that relies on combustion to produce heat.
In winter, one of the best things that people can do to improve low humidity is to keep careful control of the thermostat. Running a forced-air heating system to a higher temperature or for longer periods of time burns up water vapor in the air. Paradoxically, that can make people feel colder. Instead, they may prefer to turn down the heat and use other ways to keep warm. Radiant heat does not create the same problems, so homeowners could consider installing radiant heating methods as a replacement. Otherwise, turning down the thermostat and wearing warmer clothes may be an adequate solution.
Keep Your Home Healthy and Comfortable
<img src="/userFiles/1782/image/conclusion-indoor-humidity-regulation.jpg" style="float: right; padding: 10px 0 10px 10px; width: 400px;" alt="Tips for Regulating Indoor Humidity" />Homeowners wanting to keep a comfortable home may need to start with humidity management. People are more likely to feel too hot in the summer and too cold in the winter when the home's humidity is not in an ideal range. Homeowners can avoid many problems by paying attention to the relative humidity of the home and taking action to correct it when it gets too high or low. By adding or removing humidity based on the conditions of the home, the inhabitants will usually notice that they feel better and healthier.
Additional Reading
https://topwindowfans.com/how-to-manage-humidity-in-your-home/
https://www.epa.gov/mold/what-are-main-ways-control-moisture-your-home
https://www.lowes.com/n/how-to/controlling-moisture-and-humidity-in-the-home
https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/hot-tip-use-a-humidifier-105471
https://homeclimates.com/blog/tips-controlling-homes-humidity
https://paylesspower.com/blog/how-to-lower-humidity-in-house/
https://www.marthastewart.com/1119460/how-care-humid-home-and-find-relief
https://blog.getawair.com/6-health-symptoms-associated-with-humidity
https://www.sansone-ac.com/homes-not-hot-just-humid/
https://www.airthings.com/resources/home-humidity-damage
https://www.bobvila.com/articles/why-is-my-house-so-humid/
https://getcold.net/article/the-dangers-of-high-indoor-humidity
https://www.huskyair.com/blog/reducing-indoor-humidity/
https://www.coolray.com/help-guides/indoor_comfort_issues_to_much_or_too_little_humidity
https://www.huskyair.com/blog/how-low-humidity-is-bad-for-your-household/
https://www.sensorpush.com/articles/the-effects-of-low-humidity-on-your-health-and-comfort
https://www.bobvila.com/articles/increase-humidity/
https://www.servicechampions.net/blog/need-humidifier-effects-dry-air-low-humidity/
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/common-cold/in-depth/humidifiers/art-20048021
https://www.drhvac.ca/blog/whole-home-dehumidifier-vs-portable/
https://www.energystar.gov/products/appliances/dehumidifiers/dehumidifier_basics
https://theozonehole.com/what-causes-low-humidity-in-a-house.htm
https://www.airbetter.org/optimum-humidity-levels-home/
2021-12-17T06:42:00-07:002022-01-13T10:32:16-07:00Lazaro Marganontag:floridarealestatecentral.com,2012-09-20:17964Home Safety Tips: Identifying and Minimizing Common Causes of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
<img style="margin-left: 15px; margin-bottom: 15px; width: 475px; float: right; padding-left: 10px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1782/image/carbon-monoxide-sources.jpg" alt="Common Causes of Carbon Monoxide at Home" />Carbon monoxide is a deadly poison that people may not even realize is a problem until they are too sick to know how to fix it. Unlike natural gas, it is colorless, odorless, and does not create any sound when it escapes into a home. This compound arises through the combustion process, particularly when people use fuel to create heat to run appliances or warm the home.
Preventing carbon monoxide buildup requires an understanding of the systems that can create it. With this information, homeowners will know the most common carbon monoxide sources and how to reduce their risk.
Table of Contents
<a href="https://www.floridarealestatecentral.com/#furnaces_&_chimneys">Furnaces & Chimneys</a>
<a href="https://www.floridarealestatecentral.com/#gas_space_heaters">Gas Space Heaters</a>
<a href="https://www.floridarealestatecentral.com/#automobile_exhaust">Automobile Exhaust</a>
<a href="https://www.floridarealestatecentral.com/#gas_stoves_and_ovens">Gas Stoves and Ovens</a>
<a href="https://www.floridarealestatecentral.com/#dryers">Dryers</a>
<a href="https://www.floridarealestatecentral.com/#generators">Generators</a>
<a href="https://www.floridarealestatecentral.com/#fireplaces">Fireplaces</a>
<a href="https://www.floridarealestatecentral.com/#grills">Grills</a>
<a href="https://www.floridarealestatecentral.com/#how_to_prevent_carbon_monoxide_in_the_home">How to Prevent Carbon Monoxide in the Home</a>
<a href="https://www.floridarealestatecentral.com/#install_carbon_monoxide_detectors">Install Carbon Monoxide Detectors</a>
<a href="https://www.floridarealestatecentral.com/#have_furnace_inspected_every_year">Have Furnace Inspected Every Year</a>
<a href="https://www.floridarealestatecentral.com/#avoid_backdrafting">Avoid Backdrafting</a>
<a href="https://www.floridarealestatecentral.com/#ensure_chimney_vent_is_properly_placed">Ensure Chimney Vent Is Properly Placed</a>
<a href="https://www.floridarealestatecentral.com/#helpful_resources">Helpful Resources</a>
Furnaces & Chimneys
Most homes have a furnace to provide central heating. Because most furnaces use natural gas to produce heat for the home, carbon monoxide can be a risk.
Furnaces should prevent the accumulation of carbon monoxide in the home. The furnace uses a heat exchanger to convert fuel into usable heat. Over time, and without regular maintenance, the heat exchanger can become cracked or dirty. At this point, it might leak carbon monoxide into the house.
Homeowners may also need to pay attention to the vent apparatus for the furnace. Most furnaces vent directly outside the home through a vent stack leading to a main roof vent or chimney. If the vent stack is not installed properly, the burning process's byproduct can push carbon monoxide back down. If the chimney is damaged, cracked, or blocked with debris, it can prevent the gases from venting outside. The best way to prevent any of these things from happening is to <a href="https://www.provincialheating.ca/heating-furnace-maintenance/" target="_blank">schedule regular maintenance for the furnace</a> and confirm the vent stack and chimney are in good condition.
Gas Space Heaters
Many people use space heaters to augment their home’s heating system or provide heat for buildings that lack a central heating arrangement. Space heaters can run off electricity or gas. When used inside, gas space heaters can contribute to carbon monoxide buildup. Newer space heaters may have a sensor that shuts down the machine when the space's oxygen drops below a certain level. Older machines may not have these sensors.
Experts recommend that people only use gas heaters in well-ventilated places. A garage with an open door may not provide sufficient ventilation. Running a space heater should only be done under careful supervision, and especially not while people are sleeping. Alternatives with better ventilation may be preferable if people can use those instead. Homeowners who must use these systems should install a carbon monoxide detector.
Automobile Exhaust
<img style="margin-left: 15px; margin-bottom: 15px; width: 475px; float: right; padding-left: 10px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1782/image/automobile-exhaust-carbon-monoxide.jpg" alt="Car Causing Carbon Monoxide" />
Vehicles that use gasoline produce exhaust that is usually vented out of a tailpipe. The vent's condition and the car's location can affect people’s risk of carbon monoxide exposure. Some people choose to turn on their cars in cold weather and warm them up from inside a closed garage before they leave. This can cause a deadly carbon monoxide buildup in the garage, potentially spreading into the home.
A faulty exhaust system may also cause carbon monoxide exposure. A broken tailpipe may not vent properly, leading the exhaust to pour inside the vehicle's cabin. If people are caught in a snowstorm and running their cars for warmth, a blocked tailpipe can create the same problem. The best solution is to <a href="https://usa-autotransport.com/how-to-tell-if-car-thermostat-is-bad/" target="_blank">maintain the vehicle regularly</a>, test emissions, and avoid using it in an enclosed space.
Gas Stoves and Ovens
Gas stoves and ovens can provide heat for cooking and baking, so it is not surprising that homeowners may use them to supplement home heating as well. Unfortunately, the ventilation for kitchen appliances is often subpar and much lower in efficacy than ventilation for a furnace or boiler. As such, the concentration of carbon monoxide may be much higher in the kitchen than in other rooms of the home. Running the oven for long periods of time or daily can make the problem worse.
Homeowners can avoid the worst problems related to a gas range if they use ventilation. In some cases, particularly for people who plan to use the range for hours each day, increasing the ventilation level can improve the situation. However, having a ventilation system is only useful if homeowners are willing to use it. Ventilation should be present during all cooking endeavors and for some time afterward. Additionally, people should avoid using the range to provide additional heat in the home. Leaving an oven door open while it is running can increase carbon monoxide buildup as well.
Dryers
Carbon monoxide needs two things to accumulate, and dryers may provide both: a fuel-burning heat source and an enclosed space with limited oxygen. Dryers have vents that usually lead outside the home to lower the likelihood that something could ignite inside. This is true for dryers that run on electricity or gas. Gas dryers need adequate ventilation to prevent carbon monoxide. When there is not enough oxygen for combustion, the result is carbon monoxide.
Homeowners may be surprised how easily carbon monoxide can become a problem with gas dryers. Vents that are not cleaned regularly can get clogged with lint or other debris. Unfortunately, this is the perfect material to start a fire with sufficient heat and friction. People should plan to clear out the lint trap with each use, ensure the vent is clear from the outside, and schedule service once every year or two.
Generators
Many homeowners use generators to provide auxiliary power for outdoor activities or during a power outage. The convenience of a generator gives people access to energy they can use to run tools and appliances without needing active electrical power. However, unsafe use of generators can cause carbon monoxide poisoning. Most generators run on a fuel source like gasoline or propane. When burning these fuels, generators produce exhaust that contains carbon monoxide.
People may think running the generator near the home or in the garage is safe, but it is not. Experts recommend that homeowners operate generators at least 10 feet away from the home and direct exhaust so that it flows away from the property, not towards it. Some generators have built-in oxygen sensors to determine if the buildup of carbon monoxide is too high. People should also keep a carbon monoxide detector inside their home, especially while the generator is used.
Fireplaces
Ensuring that a fireplace does not release carbon monoxide into the home requires care at the source of the fire and the ventilation system. Homeowners may choose to start a fire in a designated fireplace or a wood-burning stove. They should only operate these systems while the fireplace damper is open and the chimney is clear. Periodically, people should ensure that their gas-burning fireplace has a properly functioning valve. A full ash bucket or fireplace with debris can also lead to carbon monoxide accumulation.
In an ideal situation, the chimney will vent the smoke and other fuel byproducts out of the home safely. If the chimney is blocked with soot or creosote or the fireplace damper is closed too early, it will send the smoke and exhaust into the home. To minimize risk, homeowners may want to install a carbon monoxide detector in a nearby room and avoid running the fireplace overnight.
Grills
<img style="margin-left: 15px; margin-bottom: 15px; width: 475px; float: right; padding-left: 10px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1782/image/grill-carbon-monoxide.jpg" alt="Carbon Monoxide from Grilling" />
Given that any heat source that uses fuel can produce carbon monoxide, grills and other equipment that produce heat for outdoor use should never be brought inside. Even homes with excellent ventilation can have difficulty eliminating carbon monoxide, and homeowners may not know there is an issue until they are in danger. Grills that run on propane or natural gas emit byproducts, including carbon monoxide. Charcoal grills can produce the same, even those that are rated safe for indoor use. People should avoid grilling close to an open door because the exhaust can float indoors and be difficult to remove. The safest way to operate this equipment is to identify a spot several feet away from an exterior door or an open window.
How to Prevent Carbon Monoxide in the Home
The best way to minimize the risk of carbon monoxide buildup is to prevent carbon monoxide from entering the home in the first place. Once homeowners understand how to evaluate the most common carbon monoxide sources, they can use their equipment correctly and keep tools in their proper places.
Install Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Installing carbon monoxide detectors and maintaining them regularly is a simple way to reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Homeowners may not be aware that common smoke detectors do not raise an alert due to high carbon monoxide levels. They will need a separate detector, which is a different device. Carbon monoxide detectors can be installed in similar places to smoke detectors. People should keep the detectors at least five feet off the ground and more than a few feet from fuel-burning equipment like a gas range or a fireplace.
Because carbon monoxide detectors are pieces of equipment that can occasionally have faults, homeowners should test them at least once a month by following the manufacturer's instructions and going through the program. The alarm should be loud enough that people can hear it anywhere inside the home. Experts recommend installing at least one on each floor of the home and more if one floor is large. People should never attempt to trigger the alarm by releasing exhaust in the home as a test. This can cause immediate health effects and may not be enough to determine accurate function.
Have Furnace Inspected Every Year
A gas furnace requires an annual inspection, usually in the fall. While homeowners can schedule maintenance with a professional or perform these tasks by themselves, they may not have the incentive to do so until the furnace starts to show signs of problems. Unfortunately, furnaces can have issues that could lead to a release of carbon monoxide without necessarily showing signs that they will do so. A <a href="https://porch.com/resources/home-inspection-leverage/" target="_blank">professional inspection</a> can help identify these concerns.
A furnace inspection takes about an hour and involves several steps, including:
Changing out the air filter
Testing the thermostat for proper function
Inspecting the ventilation apparatus for the furnace
Looking at the individual parts for wear, like the burner or heat exchanger
Checking the fuel valve to ensure that it opens and closes correctly
Typically, homeowners should leave at least two feet of room on any side of the furnace for proper airflow. Any less than this could cause a backdraft, depending on the type of combustion system. At the end of the inspection, homeowners can ask questions about the furnace's operation or the proper use of a carbon monoxide detector.
Avoid Backdrafting
The ventilation system for any fuel-burning appliance is crucial. Without it, homeowners may have to deal with a potentially deadly backdraft into the home. The way to determine the condition of the ventilation system is simple. People can take a lit match and hold it near the flue, away from any gas lines or flammable materials. If the vent pulls the wick towards the flue, the ventilation system is likely working properly. If not, there may be a blockage.
Appliances like a gas-burning furnace, gas water heater, or even a wood-burning fireplace need adequate ventilation. In these cases, the flue should draw the exhaust upward and out of the home. When there is insufficient airflow to maintain the ventilation, such as if boxes surround the furnace, the system may pull air from the flue to create combustion. This triggers a backdraft of exhaust and possible toxins into the home. When homeowners select new equipment, they should ask a professional how this might affect their ventilation needs and make changes as necessary. Sometimes, a minor change to the water heater or furnace's position may render the ventilation system ineffective.
Ensure Chimney Vent Is Properly Placed
To have ideal ventilation in the home, the chimney must be sized correctly and properly placed. Homeowners should have a chimney installed by a professional who understands ventilation needs. This task can be trickier in older homes or houses that are undergoing a significant addition or renovation. The best way to promote ventilation is to install the chimney directly above the heat source. Direct-vent heat sources, like a fireplace or furnace, use air from the outside to create combustion and vent directly out of the roof. With this type of equipment, a backdraft is extremely unlikely.
For other types, the chimney must, at minimum, be large enough to allow exhaust to escape without excessive buildup of creosote. Although chimney placement cannot always be directly above the system, adding too many joints or extenders can increase risk. Once the correct installation is complete, homeowners should plan to inspect the vent once a year. Hiring a professional to confirm good condition and proper flow is important, as the chimney can wear down over time.
What to Do if a Carbon Monoxide Detector Goes Off
<img style="margin-left: 15px; margin-bottom: 15px; width: 475px; float: right; padding-left: 10px;" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1782/image/carbon-monoxide-detector.jpg" alt="Safety Measures During Carbon Monoxide Alarm" />
Like smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors only go off in the presence of the toxin they exist to measure. People may get to the point where they no longer pay attention to a smoke alarm when it goes off while they cook, but they must not do the same for carbon monoxide. They cannot determine if the situation is actually safe because carbon monoxide gives no warning. Instead, the home’s residents should immediately open doors and windows and leave as quickly as possible. Children and pets are more susceptible to the negative effects of carbon monoxide exposure. Calling for emergency response is crucial, as some people may be more affected than others. Experts can assess the situation, determine the likely cause, and fix the problem so that residents can return once it is safe.
Carbon monoxide kills hundreds of people every year. If homeowners know the most common sources, like a furnace, gas range, or fireplace, they could ensure these systems continue to work properly. A little advanced work in prevention could save lives. Knowing how equipment works and the correct ways to use them will teach people to leave fuel-burning tools outdoors and confirm that appliances and ventilation systems are functioning appropriately before using them. These steps can minimize carbon monoxide buildup in the home and help homeowners determine when they may have a problem.
Helpful Resources
https://www.statesman.com/NEWS/20180108/5-things-you-should-know-about-carbon-monoxide
https://www.alarmnewengland.com/blog/sources-of-carbon-monoxide-poisoning
https://www.health.state.mn.us/communities/environment/air/toxins/index.html
https://www.vivint.com/resources/article/most-common-sources-carbon-monoxide-poisoning
https://6andfix.com/the-dangers-of-carbon-monoxide-leaks-from-a-furnace/
https://www.explainthatstuff.com/how-heat-exchangers-work.html
https://www.co2meter.com/blogs/news/11376733-cabin-fever-it-may-be-your-gas-space-heater
https://www.treehugger.com/psa-space-heaters-increase-your-risk-co-poisoning-4856450
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Exhaust_gas#Carbon_dioxide_(CO2)
https://www.abe.iastate.edu/extension-and-outreach/carbon-monoxide-poisoning-vehicles-aen-208/
https://homeguides.sfgate.com/gas-oven-give-off-carbon-monoxide-84088.html
https://danielshvacphiladelphia.com/how-the-stove-and-oven-in-your-home-give-off-high-carbon-monoxide-levels/
https://www.dr-lint.com/dryer-vent-carbon-monoxide-poisoning/
http://www.dryerventcleaningwi.com/DryingTimeNews/CarbonMonoxide
https://safedryervent.com/articles/how-safe-is-your-laundry-room/
https://support.firstalert.com/s/article/Cleaning-and-Maintenance-for-Smoke-and-Carbon-Monoxide-Alarms
https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/where-should-i-place-carbon-monoxide-detector
https://www.familyhandyman.com/article/what-is-backdraft-in-your-home-and-how-to-stop-it/
https://www.nachi.org/gas-furnace-inspection-checklist.htm
https://www.electricgeneratorsdirect.com/stories/7-How-to-Prevent-Carbon-Monoxide-Poisoning.html
https://www.cdc.gov/co/generatorsafetyfactsheet.html
https://www.direct-fireplaces.com/resources/fireplaces-carbon-monoxide-what-you-need-to-know/
https://www.streetdirectory.com/travel_guide/60969/home_security/dangers_brought_about_by_carbon_monoxide_and_fireplaces.html
https://www.heatnglo.com/ideas/venting-explained
https://www.northlineexpress.com/help-chimney-proper-venting.html
https://www.adt.com/resources/carbon-monoxide-detector-beeping
2021-04-12T11:34:00-07:002022-03-09T09:10:44-07:00Lazaro Marganon