GASES FROM COMBUSTION (burning fuels, like in a heater or a gas stove indoors)
- Carbon monoxide (CO) — Effects: Drowsiness, headaches, death. Testing: continuous monitor (1-50 ppm using a Forensics Detectors unit).
- Carbon dioxide (CO2) — Other Sources: Breathing. Effects: Drowsiness. Testing: continuous monitor (200-2,000 ppm using the Telaire Model 7001).
- Nitrogen oxides (NOx) = nitric oxide (NO) + nitrogen dioxide (NO2) — Effects: Upper respiratory irritation.
- Formaldehyde (HCHO) — from incomplete combustion of carbon fuels (and particle board). Testing: continuous monitor (0.01-0.3 ppm using impingers & colorimetry).
- Auto exhaust from traffic outdoors.
PARTICULATE MATTER FROM COMBUSTION (burning fuels)
- Soot particles — the broad category of black stuff.
CONTROL OF AIR POLLUTANTS
- Keep combustion appliances (fuel-burning stoves, heaters, or furnaces) in good repair and properly vented to outdoors.
- Avoid back-drafting. Strong exhaust fans can suck combustion gases back down flues.