SaskEnergy Issues Warning About Potential Carbon Monoxide Risk from Some Air Conditioning Units
SaskEnergy has alerted the public to a potential carbon monoxide (CO) threat associated with certain types of air conditioning systems. These specific air conditioners, which expel indoor air faster than fresh outdoor air can enter, may cause negative pressure in homes, leading to the possibility of CO being drawn back into the living space from fuel-burning appliances like furnaces and water heaters.
Alana Johnson, SaskEnergy’s director of strategic communications, clarified that the utility is not declaring portable air conditioners as unsafe. Instead, the focus is on raising awareness regarding the potential air flow issues caused by these units in homes.
The utility has observed a rise in calls related to this concern, with the increased popularity and usage of portable air conditioners being a contributing factor. While using a portable air conditioner alone is not considered high-risk, SaskEnergy noted that the main issues arise when these units are utilized alongside conventional water heaters.
Residents are advised to have operational CO alarms in their homes, RVs, campers, and cottages, as well as to slightly open a window or door when running an air conditioner that vents air outside to allow for fresh air circulation. Additional precautions include regular inspections of fuel-burning appliances, ensuring clear external exhaust vents, and avoiding simultaneous operation of devices that expel indoor air outdoors.
Furthermore, individuals should be cautious not to place outdoor units near potential CO sources such as appliance vents, grills, idling vehicles, or generators. Signs of poor ventilation, like lingering odors or stale air, should be monitored closely.
SaskEnergy also emphasized the risk of CO buildup in enclosed spaces even without a portable air conditioner, underscoring the importance of adequate ventilation to prevent potential health hazards or fatalities.
In summertime, precautions extend to refraining from starting gasoline-powered lawn mowers inside or near home air intakes, and avoiding indoor or near-home usage of barbecues, generators, or other fuel-burning equipment. Fire Marshal Ryan Bradley of the Saskatoon Fire Department highlighted instances where CO-related incidents were linked to running appliances or vehicles in garages, leading to CO infiltration into homes.
Bradley further explained that while air conditioners do not generate CO themselves, they can create conditions conducive to CO hazards, emphasizing the necessity of having functional CO alarms as a crucial safety measure.