Area homes can have a number of potential indoor air quality hazards. This time of year, carbon monoxide (CO) is often a threat.

 

Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can lead to poisoning and death. Often called the “silent killer,” 15 to 20 people die from CO poisoning each year in Minnesota.

 

Symptoms are similar to the flu, including headaches, dizziness, nausea and fatigue. Prolonged exposure can progress to confusion and loss of consciousness.

 

Common sources of carbon monoxide in homes are furnaces, fireplaces, cars running in attached garages, blocked chimney vents, and gas water heaters, dryers and stoves.

 

“It’s really important everyone have a carbon monoxide detector in their home,” said Dan Tranter, supervisor of the Indoor Air Program for the Minnesota Dept of Health (MDH). “Twenty to thirty dollars [the price of a CO detector] can give you peace of mind and save your life.”

 

State law requires carbon monoxide detectors be placed within 10 feet of every bedroom in a home. 

 

The detectors typically last five to seven years; some models have an expiration date on the back. All models are required to have an end-of-life warning, which creates a loud beep when the detector is nearing the end of its projected life. 

 

All detectors have three signals; the end-of-life warning, an alarm which warns of carbon monoxide, and one which signals trouble, such as a low battery.

 

If carbon monoxide is detected, windows should be opened, the home evacuated and the gas company or a qualified technician called. If symptoms of CO poisoning are exhibited, the home should be immediately evacuated and the fire department called.

 

Along with installing CO detectors, homeowners can also protect against carbon monoxide poisoning by properly venting and maintaining their fuel-burning appliances.

 

“Furnaces, fireplaces and gas-burning appliances should be checked out by a professional annually,” said Paul Fredericksen of Fred’s Plumbing, Heating & AC in Clear Lake. “And furnace filters should be changed monthly to ensure proper air flow.”

 

Fred’s Plumbing Heating & AC runs a combustion analysis as part of their service to ensure there aren’t excessive carbon monoxide levels.

 

Tranter stressed CO poisoning can occur in any building with fuel-burning appliances, including fish houses and cabins this time of year.

 

“Bring a CO alarm with you whenever you’re going to be in a sealed area,” he advised.

 

Mold is another concern with indoor air quality. Mold can start to grow in homes with too much moisture, and along with damaging whatever it’s growing on can cause health problems.

 

“The key is to keep your home dry,” said Tranter. “If you have a leak or flood dry it quickly; mold can start to grow within 24 hours.”

 

Molds affect people differently. Common symptoms include coughing, runny nose, wheezing and sore throat. Children and people with allergies, asthma, compromised immune systems and respiratory conditions may have more severe reactions.

 

The best way to look for mold is to carefully inspect your home. Mold can have a musty, earthy smell, another sign a problem exists.

 

If found, in many cases mold can be cleaned up by the homeowner while wearing protective gear such as rubber gloves and a respirator. A professional should be brought in if large amounts are discovered.

 

Another potential indoor air quality concern is asbestos, which is a mineral fiber that, when disturbed, can become airborne and inhaled into the lungs, where it can cause lung cancer and other serious problems.

 

Asbestos can be found in numerous products, including adhesives, sheetrock, paints, vinyl wall coverings and electrical, flooring, roofing, ceiling, and heating and cooling system materials. 

 

The best option is to leave asbestos material alone if it’s in good condition and not being disturbed. However removal is the safest option if it’s damaged or will be disturbed for any reason such as renovation. 

 

A licensed contractor should be used, as they can ensure the asbestos is handled safely as well as make sure air quality is acceptable after the removal.

 

MDH has a healthy homes checklist as well as information on indoor air quality and other concerns which can be found on their website at www.health.state.mn.us/topics/healthyhomes.

 

Tranter also recommends an app from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development called Healthy Homes Basics, which can be downloaded free from iTunes or Google Play.