Carbon Monoxide Testing
A carbon monoxide test is done using a portable, electric detector to measure the presence of carbon monoxide in your home and determine how much of the toxic gas it contains in parts per million (ppm). The detectors used by certified All Atlanta Inspectors are more sensitive than those you can buy in stores. They can be calibrated to detect even trace amounts of carbon monoxide.
Carbon monoxide testing is quick and easy, and should not interrupt your daily life. Depending on how many gas appliances are on in your home, testing will take roughly 10-15 minutes per appliance.
Since carbon monoxide can’t be perceived by smell, taste or sight, All Atlanta Inspection Services recommends testing for carbon monoxide annually to ensure the levels have not exceeded a safe threshold.
Having too much carbon monoxide in the air you breathe can cause array of health issues and even death. The most common symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include:
- Confusion
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Weakness
- Nausea
- Chest pains
Since these symptoms are so similar to common illnesses, it is important to test the levels in your home regularly. Indicators that you are suffering from carbon monoxide poisoning and not illness include:
Multiple or all occupants experiencing the same symptoms (including pets)
Symptoms going away when you leave the home
A carbon monoxide leak is dangerous and should be taken care of immediately. If you no not have working carbon monoxide detectors and you are worried about the levels in your home, contact a professional to evaluate the situation and complete testing.
Carbon Monoxide Prevention
Carbon monoxide poisoning leads approximately 50,000 Americans visit the emergency room each year! Thanks to modern testing processes and equipment,, carbon monoxide poisoning is very preventable. Here are a number of things you can do to reduce your risk:
- Install carbon monoxide detectors in your home. They are not as powerful as professional equipment, but they can help alert you to high levels of gas in your home.
- When purchasing gas-powered appliances, look for certifications from Underwriters’ Laboratories, or other national testing agencies.
- Always have a qualified professional service your gas-powered appliances.
- Regularly monitor the ventilation of your gas appliances. Horizontal vent pipes should be angled upward slightly to reduce the potential for leakage.
- Do not patch ventilation pipes with any materials. This can reduce efficiency and cause carbon monoxide buildups.
- Don’t use the stove as a heat source for your home.
- Portable gas stoves and generators should be kept outdoors, at a safe distance from doors, windows and vents.
Have your own list of questions or concerns about the property you’re considering buying or selling, and Talk to the inspection company in advance. Or the inspector at the inspection. This will ensure that the clients concerns will be addressed and that any special arrangements can be made ahead of time.
Real estate agents should instruct sellers to ensure that all areas of the home are easily accessible to the inspector. For example, if the attic access point is inside a closet, all clothes and belongings should be removed for ease of entry and exit.
If you’re a homebuyer, it’s especially important to be present during the inspection, especially the last hour. By being there with the inspector and paying close attention, you’ll have the opportunity to:
- Have all of your questions and concerns addressed as they arise.
- Understand the condition of each key component throughout the house and property, helping establish a better understanding of the home and the resulting inspection report.
- Truly understand any concerns you may have about the Inspection findings that look worse on paper than they really are. Save time and avoid frustration by learning about the function of your new home. You may find out how the heating system works, how to light pilot lights, how to turn on various appliances and components, and where shut-offs are located. The inspector can also point out maintenance needs and procedures, and explain how and when to check on specific items that need periodic maintenance
Read your home inspection report thoroughly. If you have concerns or need clarification—no matter how minor the issue may seem—never hesitate to reach out to your home inspector to find out more.
All Atlanta AmeriSpec Inspectors are always willing to go the extra mile to help put your mind at ease. Whether you choose to hire All Atlanta AmeriSpec Inspection Services or not, please be sure to use a qualified, trained professional to conduct your home inspection. A home purchase is the investment of a lifetime, and you deserve to have complete confidence in your financial decision.