Why Are New, Well Sealed Homes More Susceptible To CO Poisoning?
Newer homes are better sealed to prevent air leakage, which reduces energy use. As a result, these homes limit ventilation of outside air. Normally, your home breathes in air from the outside to replace air being used by combustion appliances. If your home is too well-sealed, these appliances may become starved for the air that allows them to operate properly. When that happens, vent reversal may occur. This condition is also known as “downdrafting,” which means that the appliances start drawing air down the vent or chimney, resulting in combustion byproducts entering the home. In other words, if the burners become starved for oxygen, carbon monoxide can be introduced into the home. But even older, less insulated homes can be vulnerable to the threat of carbon monoxide poisoning, particularly if the appliances have been improperly installed or not maintained.
