Pollutant-emission rates from unvented gas-fired space heaters: a laboratory study

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Abstract
Operation of an unvented combustion appliance indoors can elevate pollutant levels. We have determined the emission rates and source strengths of a variety of pollutants emitted from eight unvented gas-fired space heaters operated with well adjusted air shutters at partial and full input in a 27-m/sup 3/ chamber under a range of ventilation conditions. Emission rates were also determined for some heaters with poorly adjusted air shutters. In addition to monitoring carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, nitric oxide, nitrogen dioxide, formaldehyde, and respirable suspended particles, we also determined oxygen consumption rates. Results indicate that the emissions of nitrogen dioxide and carbon dioxide from all heaters were high enough to be of concern, both in single-room environments and, based upon calculation, in residential-sized buildings. Depending upon the particular heater and its specific air shutter adjustment, carbon monoxide and, to a lesser extent, formaldehyde emissions can be high enough to cause concern. The emission rates from this study can be used along with information about building characteristics to calculate pollutant levels in a wide variety of indoor environments. 10 references.

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