Ryan Homes CO Test Results

RYAN HOMES Defects and Damages

Carbon Monoxide (CO) exposure from our HVAC system

Note about CO test results:

The test was performed using the Nighthawk digital CO detector (pictured below at peak display during the test). This was the best CO detector we could find in a retail store. The test was done just after the openings in the return duct end cap were discovered, prior to having them sealed with caulk. Peak levels of 17 PPM of CO had already been detected coming from the duct vent, during a period heat was being used regularly from the heat pump. This low level did not set off an emergency warning alarm, however, the level is still considered dangerous. The video recorded test results shown below were done prior to sealing the upper air return duct and end cap, to verify and record that CO was in fact coming directly from the duct work when the electric heating coils were energized. The end cap was later sealed and a second test was done. CO was still detected at up to 8PPM after sealing the end cap, and some soot production continued. This was believed to be from contamination residuals and possibly other cellulose leaks. Cleaning and a higher quality air filter prevented measurable soot and CO production in a final test. Although CO and soot production are currently non-detectable, heating was only briefly used because noxious odors persisted from the HVAC system, with symptoms of headache, nausea, and dizziness resulting.

(ADDENDUM: The duct work has been cleaned and the entire heat pump was removed inside and out, including the contaminated air handler- which was correctly installed this time.)

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