Environmental Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
Figure 3.2
Contaminant levels associated with kerosene heater operation under
controlled laboratory chamber conditions. (From Leaderer, B.P.,
Science
, 218, 1113,
1982. With permission.)
decreased. Gas heater usage in southern states is, however, considerable.
There is little scientific information available on combustion-generated con-
taminant levels in such residences and, as a consequence, little is known
about potential public health risks associated with gas space heater operation.
C. Gas stoves and ovens
The use of natural gas and propane for cooking and baking is common in
North America. Such appliances (outside the context of restaurants and
cafeterias) are rarely provided with adequate local exhaust ventilation (if
provided, such systems are rarely activated). Gas cooking stoves and ovens
have been shown to be significant or potential sources of CO, CO
, NO, NO
,
2
2
aldehydes, RSP, and VOCs.
Episodic increases in indoor CO levels in the range of 10 to 40 ppmv
have been reported in residences. Peak levels of NO
>0.5 ppmv may occur
during the use of gas cooking appliances. Average concentrations are signif-
x