Well, that answers that question

[aztecan]

I had been feeling droopy lately. Not really bad, but just lethargic.

It only seemed to happen at home. I would be alert when I arrived, but within the hour, would be just tired out and sleepy.

I also found myself sleeping many more hours than usual, which isn't like me at all.

I think I may have found out why. Carbon monoxide. The culprit, my pellet stove.

It seems sometimes during recent months, I managed to dislodge the exhaust vent from the stove, probably during one of my cleaning binges.

The vent pipe was completely disconnected, so all of the exhaust fumes and carbon monoxide from the stove were venting into my house. 

I discovered this by accident when I noticed a soot mark on the wall in back of the stove. It hadn't been there earlier this year and I wasn't pleased because I would now have to either wash or, more likely, repaint the walls.

Since pellet stove are remarkably clean burning, I never noticed any smoke in the house. But I did smell wood smoke occasionally. I guess now I know why.

So, now the exhaust vent is properly connected and I will make it a matter of routine to ensure that it remains that way.

Thank goodness it wasn't natural gas or I might have already been a footnote.

I am also feeling better, less groggy, sleepy, etc. So, I guess all is well.

Now, the next question is, have the deer been eating my fruit trees?

The saga continues . . .

HUGS,

Mark

[sweetasmeli]

Oh my word Mark, thank goodness you discovered it when you did!
Make sure you check it regularly from now on!

Hugs
Melia

PS: You get deer in your gardens??

[AIDS2HIV]

^^i second that....and recommend that you go out and buy a carbon monoxide detector asap, to warn you in case it happens again*

[RAB]

Jesus Mark     carbon monoxide poisoning can be deadly! 

Thank god you found it!  Seriously!

RAB

[aztecan]

Yes, a carbon monoxide detector is on my list of things to purchase this weekend - if I can get out of the house. Its still snowing, the streets are completely snowpacked and I don't trust other drivers. They're nuts.

Oh, and Melia, yes I get deer in my garden. There is one particular buck who really likes my yard. He and about eight does hang out here quite a bit. They are so used to me they don't scurry off any more, just stand there and stare at me. I tried to get a photo one night, but all I got was their eyes glowing from the flash on a mostly black background. Somewhat eerie.

Unfortunately, they have a penchant for fruit trees, especially young ones like mine. They will eat the bark and twigs. So, I need to inspect my trees and determine whether I need deer repellant.

I am waiting for a bear to show up. They, and the occasional mountain lion, have been known to traipse into town looking for quick bite.

Ah, the joys of living in the hinterland. (And it really is a joy!   )

HUGS,

Mark

[AlanBama]

Good lord Mark!   I'm glad you're o.k.     Definintely get a carbon monoxide detector, I have one.

Wouldn't you just be pissed as hell to survive all these years with HIV and then get taken out by something like that?    I think about things like that a lot lately for some reason.   Old age kicking in, I guess......

Love & hugs,

Alan

[thunter34]

I'm so glad to read that you're ok.

I practically fainted when I read this thread, btw.  Good grief!  The perils one can be in without even realizing it...

[Life]

Mark jesus!!  Thank goodness you found that...  Where I live there are more deaths due to these kind of stoves vs. wood/gas/electric...   Off to Home Depot with you...

[Robert]

  You just about hosed yourself again.  Between the pellet stove and the food in the IB, you're really asking for it, mister.  You better be careful.  Jesus!

  robert