What is the acceptable percentage of carbon monoxide in a sample of flue gas?

The acceptable percentage of carbon monoxide in a sample of flue gas is typically set at a value around 0.04%. This threshold is important for ensuring safety and efficiency in heating systems powered by gas. Carbon monoxide is a toxic byproduct of combustion, and its presence in flue gas indicates incomplete combustion, which not only poses a serious health risk but can also signal inefficiencies in the furnace or boiler system.

When evaluating the acceptable levels of carbon monoxide, regulatory bodies and industry standards often establish limits to protect both people and equipment. A concentration of 0.04% allows for safe operation of gas appliances while minimizing risks of carbon monoxide poisoning. Levels above this might suggest detrimental conditions requiring further inspection or remedial action.

The other options reflect higher percentages of carbon monoxide that exceed established safety limits for flue gas emissions from gas appliances, making them unsuitable as acceptable levels. Thus, while any detection of carbon monoxide is concerning, the specified level of 0.04% is recognized as an acceptable maximum for ensuring a safe and efficient operation of gas heating systems.