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Conditions that Can Produce Carbon Monoxide
The following conditions can result in transient CO situations:
• Excessive spillage or reverse venting of fuel-burning appliances
caused by outdoor ambient conditions, such as wind direction
and/or velocity, including high gusts of wind, heavy air in the
vent pipes (cold/humid air with extended periods between
cycles).
• Negative pressure resulting from the use of exhaust fans.
• Simultaneous operation of several fuel-burning appliances
competing for limited internal air.
• Vent pipe connections vibrating loose from clothes dryers,
furnaces or water heaters.
• Obstructions in, or unconventional, vent pipe designs which can
amplify the above situations.
• Extended operation of unvented fuel-burning devices (range,
oven, fireplace, etc.).
• Temperature inversions which can trap exhaust gases
near the ground.
• Vehicles idling in an open or closed garage, or near a home.
To be safe, know the possible sources of CO in your home. Keep
fuel-burning appliances and their chimneys and vents in good
working condition. Learn the early symptoms of exposure, and
if you suspect CO poisoning, move outside to fresh air and get
emergency help. Your first line of defense is an annual inspection
and regular maintenance of your appliances. Contact a licensed
contractor or call your local utility company for assistance.
Information About Carbon Monoxide Alarms –
What They Can and Cannot Do
CO alarms provide early warning of the presence of CO, usually
before a healthy adult would experience symptoms. This early
warning is possible, however, only if your CO alarm is located,
installed and maintained as described in this guide.
Because carbon monoxide is a cumulative poison, long-term
exposure to low levels may cause symptoms, as well as short-term
exposure to high levels. This Kidde unit has a time-weighted alarm
– the higher the level of CO present, the sooner the alarm will be
triggered.