What’s the difference between Carbon Monoxide (CO) and Carbon Dioxide (CO₂)?

This article distinguishes between carbon monoxide (CO) and carbon dioxide (CO₂), emphasizing the dangers of CO, particularly from improper use of generators. Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that can cause fatal poisoning by binding to hemoglobin in blood, preventing oxygen absorption. Symptoms include headache, dizziness, and nausea. This article highlights the importance of proper generator use and ventilation to avoid CO exposure in homes. 

REMEMBER: Never use a generator inside a home, garage, basement, crawlspace or any partially enclosed area.  Keep generators outdoors, away from doors, windows and vents that could allow carbon monoxide to come indoors.
 

If you or someone you're with has symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, get into fresh air immediately and call 911 or emergency medical help.
 

Environment

This article relates to all home standby generators and gas portable generators.

 

What’s the difference between Carbon Monoxide (CO) and Carbon Dioxide (CO₂)?

If you confuse the two, you’re not alone.  You’re probably aware that they are two different gases, but which one is the good one and which is the bad one? Both gases are a combination of carbon and oxygen, which is why their names are similar.  But these gases are created through different chemical reactions.

 

What is Carbon Dioxide (CO₂)?

Humans and animals produce carbon dioxide when they breathe, and plants use it to produce oxygen. While carbon dioxide naturally occurs in the atmosphere and is not toxic to humans, high concentrations in poorly ventilated spaces may make occupants drowsy, potentially displacing oxygen and making it harder to breathe.

 

What is Carbon Monoxide (CO)?

Carbon monoxide is not naturally occurring and is considered toxic to humans. It is a result of the combustion of fossil fuels, oil, coal and natural gas. Carbon monoxide is an odorless and tasteless gas.  When areas are not properly ventilated, carbon monoxide poisoning is a real risk, which is why we see Carbon Monoxide detectors in homes and on generators (CO Sense).

Carbon monoxide poisoning sets in very quickly and may lead to death if not treated immediately.
 

Symptoms of CO poisoning

CO poisoning symptoms are similar to the flu, which can cause victims to ignore the early signs which include:

• Headache
• Lightheadedness
• Weakness
• Dizziness
• Stomachache
• Nausea or vomiting
• Shortness of breath
• Confusion
• Blurred vision
• Loss of consciousness

What are common Carbon Monoxide sources in the home?

• Clothes Dryers
• Water heaters
• Furnaces or boilers
• Fireplaces, both gas and wood burning
• Gas stoves and ovens
• Motor Vehicles (exhaust)
• Generators
• Grills, power tools and lawn equipment