What is a common result of inadequate ventilation in a gas appliance?

Inadequate ventilation in a gas appliance leads to a dangerous situation where products of combustion, particularly carbon monoxide, are not adequately expelled from the living space. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can be produced when natural gas or propane is burned. When ventilation is poor, this gas can accumulate, leading to serious health risks including poisoning, which can be fatal. Therefore, proper ventilation is crucial to ensure that harmful gases are effectively removed, protecting occupants from danger. The other outcomes, such as increased efficiency in gas use, reduced maintenance costs, and enhanced appliance durability, do not result from inadequate ventilation and can often be misconceptions about appliance operation in poorly ventilated environments.