Carbon Monoxide Detectors
The invisible, odorless and deadly gas carbon monoxide (CO) is one of the most dangerous problems in homes. Installing a carbon monoxide detector alongside the smoke detectors in your home can help protect your family from this poisonous gas.
When you shop for a new CO detector, choose one that meets the CSA 6.19 standard, has an audible alarm and is easy to test and reset.
Tips for Preventing CO Poisoning:
- If the flame on your gas stove burns orange instead of blue, have your home checked for CO leaks. An orange flame is a sign that CO is present.
- Never use an oven or a cooking range to heat your home.
- Follow the manufacturer's instructions for placement of CO detectors.
- Change the batteries in your CO detector at least twice a year.
- Replace your CO detectors according to the manufacturer's specifications.
For more information, see our Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector Buying Guide.
Radon Testing Kits and Detectors
Radon is a natural, radioactive gas that comes from the soil. It's odorless, invisible and has no taste. Because it's been identified as a leading cause of cancer, it's important for you to test your home for its presence. Testing kits for radon are easy, inexpensive and come with complete instructions for where to send your sample for analysis. You can also purchase radon detectors.
If you do find radon in your home, there are several steps you can take to reduce its presence, from sealing cracks in your floors and walls to changing your home’s air flow. A subslab depressurization system, for instance, uses a system of pipes and fans to vent radon gas from beneath your home’s foundation, preventing it from ever entering your home. Older homes, which lack the effective sealing of newer homes, may vent radon naturally.
Low VOC Paint
The smell of new paint isn't only irritating, but it can actually be harmful. Paint, stain and other finishes commonly used in the home contain chemicals, such as formaldehyde, that can release irritants into your home’s air for months after use. You can improve the health of your next home improvement project by choosing a low volatile organic compound (VOC) paint. This paint may reduce the amount of chemicals released into your home.
No matter what, avoid storing leftover paint inside your home. Even tightly sealed paint containers can emit noxious fumes and other chemicals. For more information, see Store and Dispose of Paint Properly.
Household Chemicals: Storage, Usage and Disposal
Cleaning supplies, pesticides and other chemicals that you store under your sink may seem harmless, but even when you are not using them, they still can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other toxic gases into the air. These tips can help you minimize problems from household chemicals:
- Buy only as many cleaning supplies as you need at one time. It is tempting to stock up, but the safest practice for your home is to minimize the amount of dangerous chemicals.
- Remove any containers of chemicals that you have not used in at least two years. Consider putting dates on chemicals like pesticides that you do not use as frequently as more common household products, like cleaners, to help you determine when it is time to get rid of them.
- Use volatile materials like wood glue or metal cleaners outdoors or in a well-ventilated work space.
- Remove dry-cleaned clothing from any bags or other packaging, and hang it outside to rid them of solvent vapors. You might also look for a dry cleaner that does not use perchloroethylene.
- Dispose of household chemicals properly. Look for a recycling center in your neighborhood that can handle these chemicals with proper care.
- Incorporate fresh plants in your home décor. Not only will they make your home more attractive, but they also clean the air.