Carbon Monoxide Kills Again  

Carbon Monoxide Kills One in Maryland

The Winter months inevitably bring the headlines of another example that carbon monoxide kills, and this season is no exception. This week we learned of the unfortunate story of a family in Maryland that have suffered the ultimate tragedy of the loss of a loved one as a result of carbon monoxide poisoning with the source being the furnace in their home.

Carbon monoxide kills one in Maryland while others have to be hospitalized. Incomplete combustion in a furnace leads to carbon monoxide deaths.

As reported by Baltimore news, WBAL, “A 34-year-old man died, and a woman and child were hospitalized after being exposed to carbon monoxide in a Cecil County home Wednesday night…Investigators believe the carbon monoxide filled the home after the incomplete combustion of an oil furnace being used to heat the home.”

Link to article: https://www.wbal.com/man-dead-woman-and-child-hospitalized-after-carbon-monoxide-poisoning-in-cecil-county-home/

How Does Carbon Monoxide Kill through Incomplete Combustion?

Incomplete combustion occurs when a fuel does not burn completely due to insufficient oxygen or poor mixing of fuel and air. Instead of producing carbon dioxide (CO₂​) and water (H₂O) as in complete combustion, incomplete combustion produces other by-products like carbon monoxide (CO), soot (carbon particles), and sometimes unburned hydrocarbons. These by-products are harmful to our health as well as the environment.

Conditions Leading to Incomplete Combustion

• Lack of oxygen: Not enough oxygen is available to react with the fuel completely.
• Poor mixing: Inadequate mixing of air and fuel prevents complete combustion.
• Low temperature: Combustion requires a certain temperature; lower temperatures can result in incomplete reactions.
• Impurities in fuel: Contaminants can hinder the combustion process.

Examples of Incomplete Combustion

• Burning wood in a closed fireplace: Limited air supply leads to soot and carbon monoxide production.
• Faulty car engines: Poor oxygen-to-fuel ratios can result in carbon monoxide emissions.
• Gas stoves: If the flame is yellow instead of blue, it can be an indication of incomplete combustion

Carbon Monoxide Kills and other Consequences

• Health risks: Carbon monoxide is a toxic gas that can cause poisoning and even death.
• Environmental impact: Soot and unburned hydrocarbons contribute to air pollution and climate change.
• Energy inefficiency: Incomplete combustion wastes energy as not all of the fuel is converted into useful heat.

Preventing incomplete combustion involves ensuring adequate oxygen supply, maintaining proper equipment, and using clean fuels.

How can incomplete combustion of my home furnace lead to carbon monoxide poisoning?

When a furnace experiences incomplete combustion, several issues can arise, including safety hazards such as carbon monoxide poisoning, environmental concerns, and efficiency losses.

Safety Hazards

• Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: Prolonged exposure to carbon monoxide is life-threatening. A malfunctioning furnace can be a silent source of this danger.
• Fire Risk: Soot and unburned hydrocarbons can increase the risk of a fire in the furnace or ductwork.

Production of Harmful By-Products

• Carbon Monoxide (CO): Incomplete combustion produces carbon monoxide, a toxic and odorless gas. It can accumulate indoors and pose serious health risks, including dizziness, nausea, or even death due to carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Soot and Particulates: Soot (unburned carbon particles) may be produced, which can accumulate in the furnace, ducts, and surrounding areas.
• Unburned Hydrocarbons: These compounds can contribute to air pollution and create a foul odor.

Damage to the Furnace System

• Soot Buildup: Soot can accumulate on heat exchangers, reducing heat transfer efficiency and increasing the risk of system damage or corrosion.
• Flame Instability: Poor combustion can cause the flame to become unstable, potentially leading to a furnace shutdown or damage over time.

Environmental Impact

• Increased Emissions: Incomplete combustion results in higher emissions of carbon monoxide, soot, and other pollutants, contributing to air quality problems and climate change.

Decreased Furnace Efficiency

• Incomplete combustion wastes fuel because not all of it is converted into heat. This leads to increased energy consumption and higher utility bills.

Indicators that Carbon Monoxide might Kill from Incomplete Combustion in a Furnace

• Yellow or orange flame instead of a steady blue flame.
• Soot buildup around vents or the furnace area.
• Increased fuel consumption with less heat output.
• Unusual odors near the furnace.
• Activation of a carbon monoxide detector.

Preventive Measures to Stop Carbon Monoxide

• Regular Maintenance: Schedule routine inspections and cleaning to ensure the furnace operates efficiently.
• Proper Ventilation: Ensure the furnace has an adequate air supply for complete combustion.
• Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Install and maintain these devices to detect carbon monoxide leaks early.
• Professional Inspection: Have a qualified technician assess and repair any issues with the burner, heat exchanger, or air-fuel mixture.

By addressing these factors, you can prevent incomplete combustion, ensuring the furnace operates safely and efficiently.

Link to Post – How do I know if my furnace is leaking carbon monoxide?

Although the ultimate risk of carbon monoxide poisoning is death, as in the story referenced above, the lingering harm suffered by survivors can be debilitating and may include brain damage. As in this case in Maryland, while one died, others survived and those who survive are likely to suffer permanent alteration to their self. Permanent Brain Damage Following Non-Fatal Carbon Monoxide Poisoning