Carbon Monoxide 

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless, tasteless and non-irritating toxic gas.  It is called “the silent killer” because it can kill within three minutes with no warning signs. Extended exposure at lower levels can also be fatal. Extended exposure symptoms often mimic those of common flu, and are frequently misdiagnosed.

Produced by the incomplete combustion of fuels, dangerous CO can come from many sources commonly used in our homes, including unvented cooking appliances, fireplaces, furnaces, wood stoves, water heaters, gas clothes dryers, and attached garages.  Particularly in weather when the windows are closed, we may have insufficient fresh air to support complete combustion in fuel-burning appliances. 

The State of New Jersey Department of Community Affairs and the Board of Public Utilities urge all residents to have heating equipment inspected annually, observe various recommended safety measures, and install a carbon monoxide detector meeting UL 2034 standards. 

Ken Marchi, our Master Inspector, is nationally certified in Carbon Monoxide testing and can provide reliable testing of your home and appliances.