An overview of the risks of Carbon Monoxide Gas in the house
An overview of the risks of Carbon Monoxide Gas in the house
Leaving no smell and having no taste Carbon Monoxide Gas is very dangerous and poisonous. Bad air to a gas boiler can lead to the production of this gas. Co2 is the normal yield from a gas appliance but this can be replaced by Carbon Monoxide Gas with reduced ventilation or a blocked flue. Building ordinances prescribing air prerequisites and the widespread availability gas appliance service services has reduced the incidence of Co poisoning although there are still 30 deaths per year.
Can I check my gas boilers to see if Carbon Monoxide could be a problem?
Carbon Monoxide production is often a result of incomplete burning and this can be seen as the deposit of lampblack coloring surfaces near your gas appliances. Inspecting gas pilot lights can give early warning of a lack of oxygen in the central heating appliance as the colour of the pilot light may change from blue to yellow. You should call in a trained plumber to maintain your gas appliances if you notice that the pilot burner starts to burn with a yellowish light.
Can you do anything to reduce the chances of Carbon Monoxide Gas poisoning?
Bad air resulting in lack of oxygen leads to the production of poisonous Carbon Monoxide Gas. Gas appliance engineers will check the ventilation and burning efficiency of your gas appliances during the regular maintenance visits eliminating the causes of poor combustion. To guarantee compliance with the gas appliance servicing ordinances make sure that the gas plumber you hire to service your appliances has CORGI registration. As a second, very important, line of defence, fit a British Standard approved Carbon Monoxide Gas detector with an audible alarm. Air vents maintain the required air flow to you gas appliances and it is crucial that these are kept free of any blockages as this could result in a reduced flow of air. Garden plants can also be a risk to you as growth throughout the summer can block air vents to a gas appliance which may not be in operation until the cold weather returns. And make sure your flue doesn’t become blocked with birds’ nests or other debris. Smoke and Carbon Monoxide detectors are manufactured to make different audible sounds when triggered. Take some time to learn the differences so that you are mindful of what type of emergency you face when one of your detectors is set off.
What are the risks with Carbon Monoxide Gas poisoning?
Carbon Monoxide Gas is poisonous so you should be very careful. signs can be similar to other sicknesses so act quickly if you have any doubts. Take action to protect yourself and your family quickly. Co poisoning strikes at all age groups, not just the older or debilitated. Pets, large and small, are also likely victims.
Are there any warning signs of the presence of Carbon Monoxide Gas?
Many times Co poisoning results in typical flu like signs such as: -
- ongoing head aches
- queasiness
- extreme tiredness
- billiousness
If you notice symptoms such as these when you have gas appliances in the house, stop using the appliance without delay, increase ventilation to the rooms, take any inhabitants outdoors and ensure that your gas appliances are inspected by a CORGI registered gas engineer.