Hi all.
I have a 1998 Ovation.
Recently bought a Lightspeed Zulu headset with inbuilt CO detector. Also have a CO guardian unit, CO sensor inside my ForeFlight Sentry and a dash mounted ASA CO detector. Safe to say I’m covered for CO detection! But it was the audible realtime CO level announcements in the Lightspeed that alerted me to high CO levels (>50ppm, up to 100ppm) in various stages of flight.
After testing, we’ve isolated the issue to the airconditioning unit blower and overhead vent/mixer. It seems we are sucking exhaust at the tail through the inlet back there, and reticulating it through the cabin when the blower is on and vents are configured to do so.
To complicate issues, I’m also getting high CO levels when taxiing, when A/C is off and vents are closed.
Having the “silent killer” at unsafe levels in my cabin with wife and kids is concerning to say the least, and we’ve grounded the bird until we can work out what to do.
Everything in front of the firewall is looking immaculate, no cracks or anything, and I’ve recently had a new (factory remanufactured) engine installed, new hoses, etc.
Has anyone had CO issues with Ovations, particularly ones with A/C?
Would appreciate any tips or guidance.