Protecting your family and Favourite animals from Carbon Monoxide

Leaving no smell and having no taste Co is very dangerous and toxic. Normal gas fire or gas appliance operation produces innocuous gases but lack of oxygen can result in Carbon Monoxide Gas production. The standard flue gases from a gas boiler, or other gas appliance such as a gas fire, contain Carbon Dioxide, this is displaced by Co when the oxygen levels are reduced. Many people suffer from Carbon Monoxide poisoning each year although the implementation of strict gas boiler ventilation rules and access to professional maintenance and servicing has cut the number of deaths to thirty.

Will looking at my boilers show me I have a Carbon Monoxide Gas issue?

If you see stains, carbon black or coloration on or near gas appliances, fires and water heaters this could indicate that you have a possible problem. Inspecting gas pilot lights can give early warning of a lack of oxygen in the gas boiler as the colour of the pilot may change from blue to yellowish. You should call in a trained engineer to maintain your central heating system if you notice that the pilot burner starts to burn with a yellow light.

What should I do to protect myself and my family from Co poisoning ?

Bad ventilation resulting in lack of oxygen leads to the production of poisonous Carbon Monoxide. Gas appliance engineers will check the air and combustion efficiency of your gas appliances during the regular maintenance visits eliminating the causes of poor burning. To guarantee compliance with the gas appliance servicing ordinances make sure that the plumber you hire to service your appliances has CORGI registration. You can now buy electronic, battery powered, Co detectors which sound an alarm on sensing of high levels of the gas. You should also keep air vents in doors, walls or windows clear – never cover them up to prevent draughts. On many occasions ventilation reviews have discovered air vents which have been blocked by fast growing plants and you should look for this throughout the growing season. chimney air can become obstructed in the summer by a birds nest and you may not notice id a fire is not used in the summer so a visual inspection should be incorporated in your household maintenance plans. Smoke and Carbon Monoxide detectors are constructed to make different hearable sounds when set off. 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 will Carbon Monoxide Gas Poisoning result in?

If you suspect there is Co in your home you should err on the side of caution. symptoms can be similar to other sicknesses so act quickly if you have any doubts. Seek help without delay. Anyone can fall victim to Carbon Monoxide poisoning, even the fit and healthy. Pets can also be impacted.

What might I see if there was Carbon Monoxide Gas in my home?

Co absorption can result in the following symptoms: -
- persistent head aches
- loss of balance
- fatigue
- upset stomach and sickness

A CORGI certified plumber should be brought in to inspect your gas appliances if you notice these symptoms in your home. Whilst waiting for the plumber to come you should see to it that you have opened up the windows and everyone has left the household.

Posted in Safety