Portland Heating and Cooling Solutions

Heating And Cooling Tips: The Invisible Danger Of CO2

Heating and cooling systems are generally safe but there is an invisible and insidious gas that can be very dangerous if not detected.  Often referred to as the "silent killer" Carbon monoxide is an invisible, odorless, colorless gas created when fuels such as gasoline, wood, coal, natural gas, propane, oil, and methane burn incompletely. According to the Journal of the American Medical Association, approximately 2,100 people die every year from carbon monoxide poisoning in the United States and there are more than 10,000 injuries. Oregon has a law going into effect April 1 2011 that Landlords must provide a properly functioning carbon monoxide alarms for units that have a carbon monoxide source. Also included in the law: Home sellers of one-and two family dwellings, manufactured dwellings, or multifamily housing units containing a carbon monoxide source must have one or more properly functioning carbon monoxide alarms before conveying fee title or transferring possession of a dwelling and carbon monoxide alarms are required in new construction or a structure that undergoes reconstruction, alteration or repair for which a building permit is required.

The state of Oregon has a great question and answer document at http://www.oregon.gov/OSP/SFM/docs/Comm_Ed/CO_Q_Achanges.pdf

Most states today either have a law or one on the books soon. There are plenty of sad  stories from around the country that could have been way different only if there were a simple device plugged into the wall.

As a company that services and installs equipment that may produce Carbon monoxide, we are committed to train our employees' and to  let all of our customers know the potential, and provide a high quality low cost solution for an alarm. We have these alarms available at our office for $35.00.

Columbia NW Heating Inc. specializes in efficiently upgrading or repairing air conditioning, heating, gas furnaces, heat pump, ductless heat pumps, tankless water heaters, geothermal heat pumps, electric furnaces, air filtration systems, oil furnaces,  gas fireplaces and inserts, and all systems related to the comfort of your home or office in Portland and surrounding areas.