Quick Scoop

Carbon monoxide in a home is usually created by fuel-burning appliances or equipment that aren’t burning fuel completely or aren’t vented properly. Common sources include furnaces, water heaters, gas stoves, fireplaces, wood stoves, dryers, generators, cars in attached garages, and even tobacco smoke.

What causes it

CO is produced whenever carbon-based fuel burns incompletely. That means problems like blocked chimneys, poor ventilation, broken parts, or incorrect installation can let CO build up indoors.

Common home sources

  • Furnaces and boilers.
  • Gas stoves, ovens, and water heaters.
  • Fireplaces, wood stoves, and kerosene heaters.
  • Clothes dryers and attached-garage vehicles.
  • Generators, grills, and other fuel-burning tools used indoors or too close to the home.

Why it matters

Carbon monoxide is colorless, odorless, and poisonous , so people often don’t realize it is present until symptoms start.

Simple safety note

If you think CO may be present, leave the area immediately and get fresh air , then contact emergency services or your gas utility if needed. I can also help you make a short home CO safety checklist.