Carbon Monoxide Levels In Furnace Exhaust

The average steady state concentration of co in the chamber increased as the firing rate increased.

Carbon monoxide levels in furnace exhaust.

The current ansi z21 47 standard 1998 requires that an air free flue gas sample of co not exceed a maximum of 400 ppm 0 04 percent when a furnace vent is either partially or completely blocked. In high levels carbon monoxide can be a very serious health hazard in some cases even deadly. Below are some steps you can take to prevent carbon monoxide leaks in your furnace. Get annual maintenance on your furnace.

Unfortunately many people are injured or killed from exposure to toxic levels of carbon monoxide that are traced back to a malfunctioning combustion appliance. Maximum allowable outdoor concentration for one hour period in any year epa ashrae 40 ppm. Levels near properly adjusted gas stoves are often 5 to 15 ppm and those near poorly adjusted stoves may be 30 ppm or higher. Greiner unpublished 27 ppm.

For a number of different reasons your furnace can develop a crack in its heat exchanger or flue pipes. Cdc works with national state local and other partners to raise awareness about co poisoning and to monitor co related illness and death in the u s. How to avoid the dangers of carbon monoxide leaks from your furnace. The pipe that is turn upwards should be the exhaust the pipe turned downwards should be the combustion air intake.

Earlier onset of exercise induced angina hbco 4 96 who 13. During disconnected vent tests. When all systems are operating normally that toxic gas goes harmlessly up the flue. 21 percent increase in cardiorespiratory complaints kurt 1978.

Use your cellphone to check for obstructions in side wall furnace vent pipes. Steps to reduce exposure to carbon monoxide it is most important to be sure combustion equipment is maintained and properly adjusted. Typical concentration in flue gases chimney of a properly operating furnace or water heater. A nest or clog in either the fresh air or the combustion side can cause carbon monoxide poisoning.