Carbon monoxide (CO) is a silent, invisible, odorless, and colorless gas that can be deadly. Understanding how this gas disperses in the air is important for ensuring safety and effective detection in homes and other enclosed spaces.
Understanding Carbon Monoxide’s Density
Carbon monoxide does not significantly float or sink in the air; instead, it tends to mix throughout a space. This behavior is due to its molecular weight being very close to the average molecular weight of air. CO’s molecular weight is approximately 28.01 g/mol, while air (mainly nitrogen and oxygen) averages 28.97 g/mol.
Because these molecular weights are so similar, CO is not substantially lighter or heavier than the air around it. Consequently, CO disperses and blends uniformly with the air rather than stratifying into distinct layers near the ceiling or floor. This means that if carbon monoxide is present in a room, it will likely be found at all levels, from the floor to the ceiling.
Practical Implications for Detection and Accumulation
The mixing characteristic of carbon monoxide has important implications for CO detector placement. Since CO disperses evenly, it can be present at any height. Detectors are not designed for specific high or low placement, but rather to detect CO within the general air mixture.
Manufacturers generally recommend installing carbon monoxide detectors on every level of a home, including basements. Optimal placement often includes central locations and within 15 feet of each sleeping area. This ensures detectors can sense CO regardless of its vertical position, providing early warning to occupants.
Common Sources and Prevention Strategies
Carbon monoxide is produced whenever fossil fuels are burned incompletely. Common household sources include malfunctioning or improperly vented fuel-burning appliances such as furnaces, water heaters, gas ranges, clothes dryers, and fireplaces. Portable generators are another significant source, especially when used indoors or in attached garages.
Prevention strategies focus on proper maintenance and ventilation. Regular professional inspection and servicing of fuel-burning appliances are important to ensure they operate efficiently and vent properly. Never use charcoal grills, portable generators, or other gasoline-powered equipment inside a home, garage, or any enclosed space. Ensuring that vehicle exhaust systems are well-maintained also helps prevent CO buildup, especially when idling in areas connected to living spaces.
Recognizing Exposure and Taking Action
Recognizing the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning is essential, as the gas is undetectable by human senses. Initial symptoms can be subtle and often mimic common illnesses like the flu, including headache, dizziness, nausea, and fatigue. As exposure continues, symptoms can worsen to include shortness of breath, confusion, vomiting, and loss of consciousness.
If carbon monoxide exposure is suspected, immediate action is necessary. Evacuate the premises without delay and move to fresh air outdoors. Once safely outside, call emergency services, such as 911 or your local fire department. Professional help is important for both medical evaluation of those exposed and for identifying and addressing the source of the carbon monoxide leak.