Does Candles Produce Carbon Monoxide: Precautions In Indoor Environments

Quick answer: Yes, candles can potentially cause carbon monoxide poisoning, but the likelihood is low. While candles do produce a small amount of carbon monoxide, it is not enough to be harmful under normal circumstances. However, lighting multiple candles in a small, poorly ventilated space can increase carbon monoxide emissions and present a risk. Despite this, it is important to note that lighting candles can never be considered entirely risk-free, as carbon monoxide is undetectable by our senses.

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Let’s delve deeper into the relationship between candles and carbon monoxide, as well as the potential risks associated with them.

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Candles Produce Carbon Monoxide

Candle wax, regardless of its type, contains hydrogen and carbon. When a candle burns, these elements combine with the oxygen in the room to create carbon dioxide (CO2) and water vapor. These two gases are released into the air as a result of the combustion process.

Regrettably, candles do not burn perfectly or completely. Even with sufficient oxygen in the room, approximately 0.1% of the chemical reactions during the burning process occur with insufficient oxygen. Approximately 10% of the chemical reactions that take place during the burning process happen without enough oxygen. As a result, carbon monoxide is produced due to this incomplete combustion. This holds true for all types of candles, not just those made from petroleum-based wax.

However, in small or unventilated rooms, where there is limited oxygen to facilitate complete combustion, candles will produce a higher amount of carbon monoxide. This is because carbon monoxide is produced when carbon reacts with oxygen, and without enough oxygen, carbon dioxide cannot be formed.

How Much Carbon Monoxide is Safe to Inhale?

The level of carbon monoxide is measured in units of parts per million (ppm). The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health recommends keeping carbon monoxide levels below 9 ppm for homes, with an average of 35 ppm over an 8-hour period.

As the concentration rises above 10 ppm, symptoms such as headaches, nausea, flu-like symptoms, fatigue, and vomiting may occur over time.

A concentration of 100 ppm or higher can lead to confusion, severe headaches, brain damage, and, ultimately, coma and death over prolonged exposure. The duration of exposure also plays a role, as a concentration of 100 ppm can cause a headache in about an hour, unconsciousness within 4-6 hours, and potentially death.

Thankfully, the typical amount of carbon monoxide produced by candles, even scented ones, is less than 2 ppm in a well-ventilated room. However, it is important to note that this concentration can increase significantly if candles are burned in a small, poorly ventilated space such as a bathroom.

The Risk of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Increases with Multiple Candles

While burning one or two candles in a well-ventilated room is unlikely to cause significant harm, burning a large number of candles simultaneously can be unsafe. The more candles there are in a room, the higher the concentration of carbon monoxide becomes.

For example, lighting 7-8 candles in a bedroom can increase the carbon monoxide concentration to 7-9 ppm. Although this may be safe for a short duration, prolonged exposure can lead to the adverse effects of carbon monoxide on the body.

In smaller, poorly ventilated spaces like bathrooms, the concentration of carbon monoxide increases even further due to the limited amount of oxygen present. If you must enjoy a candle-lit bath, it is important to fully open the bathroom window to allow oxygen to flow in. Additionally, limiting the time spent in such a bathroom can help minimize exposure.

Do Scented Candles Emit More Carbon Monoxide?

No, scented candles do not emit more carbon monoxide compared to unscented ones. The fragrance and dyes used in candles play no role in carbon monoxide production. However, they may contribute to the emission of other harmful substances.

For instance, candles made from petroleum-based wax release carcinogenic toxins such as benzene, formaldehyde, toluene, and acetaldehyde, which can appear as soot in the air. These toxins are similar to the ones produced by diesel fuel. Depending on the type of dyes and fragrances used, the level of pollution emitted by scented candles may vary.

A good alternative is to opt for candles made from beeswax or soy wax. Although they may be slightly pricier, they are non-toxic and long-lasting.

Minimizing the Hazard of Candle-Related Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

The first step in reducing the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning from candles is ensuring proper ventilation in the room. When burning multiple candles, especially in smaller or less airy spaces, it is crucial to keep a window open. This allows carbon monoxide to escape and fresh oxygen to enter the room, significantly reducing the risk.

Other preventative measures include:

Ignite a small number of candles concurrently

Keep the number of candles burning simultaneously to a minimum. While one candle may not produce enough carbon monoxide to pose a threat, multiple candles can. If a candle is large and has several wicks, each wick should be counted as a separate candle.

Limit the burning time

Avoid burning candles continuously for over 4 hours per session. Most candle manufacturers advise against extended burning due to the potential risks associated with prolonged exposure to the by-products of combustion. It is important to remember not to leave a candle burning while asleep, as this presents a risk of prolonged carbon monoxide exposure and other gases, as well as the potential danger of a fire.

Install a carbon monoxide detector

Similar to smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors should be installed in every room where candles are used. Once the concentration of carbon monoxide reaches 100 ppm, the detector will sound an alarm, alerting you to the danger and allowing you to extinguish the candles and leave the premises.

Stay vigilant

While carbon monoxide detectors are effective, some individuals may be more sensitive to lower concentrations. People with asthma, heart conditions, or other respiratory issues may be affected by carbon monoxide at lower levels. It is important to closely monitor your body’s response when candles are burning. If you experience headaches, nausea, breathlessness, or feel that the air is becoming stuffy, extinguish the candles immediately.

It is worth noting that candles are not the only potential source of carbon monoxide in your home. Appliances such as gas cookers and fuel-based space heaters can also produce carbon monoxide.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, all candles produce trace amounts of carbon monoxide and can potentially cause carbon monoxide poisoning. However, by ensuring adequate ventilation, burning only a few candles at a time, and taking necessary precautions, such as limiting burning time and installing carbon monoxide detectors, you can safely enjoy scented and colored candles in your home, including in the bathroom.

Source: https://magnetmix.com
Category: Lifestyle