Carbon monoxide indoor air pollution

Carbon monoxide (CO) is among the best known health and life hazards in the indoor air.

When inhaled and dissolved in the blood, carbon monoxide blocks the ability of blood cells to carry and deliver oxygen to bodily tissues. With large enough concentration it causes death. Unsuspectedly, when out of control, CO indoor air pollution can make you tired, put you to sleep and, if not stopped, then even kill you.

Even with non-fatal concentrations, CO is still a threat. Because it reduces flow of oxygen in the blood stream, it is especially threatening to people with heart problems, increasing the risk of heart attacks and stroke. It is also dangerous for people with respiratory problems. Besides, even in small concentrations, which you can often experience, CO is known to reduce mental performance.

One of the strongest sources of carbon monoxide indoor air pollution is tobacco smoke from cigarettes, pipes, and cigars. Even if you use an air purifier to trap the smoke particle (such as ionic or electrostatic air purifier, HEPA air filter, or activated carbon cleaner), the CO gas level is not reduced by such filters. There is also a possibility of CO accumulation in the indoor air with inadequate ventilation.

Carbon monoxide indoor air pollution is often believed to be the reason behind higher risk of heart attacks and strokes for bysmokers.

So, what can be done? The most basic way is just to improve ventilation. Another natural way is to use appropriate houseplants or zeolite crystals to absorb CO from the home air. Remember that an electrostatic, ionic, HEPA, or activated carbon air purifiers won't help you there.

If you feel that in your situation there is a chance of CO leakage or accumulation, it is wise to have an indoor carbon monoxide level detector. As soon as you are get a signal of a carbon monoxide danger, you can hopefully do something, like open a window and/or get out and get some fresh air.

What you should know about carbon monoxide detector systems to prevent poisoning accidents
Carbon monoxide detector alarms you of a dangerous CO level in your indoor air. A simple CO detector prevents deadly carbon monoxide poisoning accidents.