Service your boilers often to ward off Carbon Monoxide
Service your boilers often to ward off Carbon Monoxide
Carbon Monoxide cannot be tasted and has no odour giving no opportunity to detect this dangerous gas. Carbon Monoxide gas can be produced when a boiler is operating with too little oxygen supply provided to the burning chamber. Properly balanced ventilation will result in Carbon Dioxide output, Carbon Monoxide will result if the degree of oxygen is limited with decreased flow of air or a blocked flue. Tragically there are 30 Carbon Monoxide Gas poisoning deaths every year and many more injuries although this could be worse without the implementation of ventilation guidelines and adoption of regular boiler servicing.
How can I see I have a Co problem?
One way of visually checking for likely problems is to check for signs of spotting, sooting or stain on or around gas boilers, fires and water heaters. Another way to check for gas burning problems is to scrutinise pilot lights and see whether they are burning with a yellow or other colour flame rather than the blue light of a well maintained system. Changes in the colour of the pilot indicate that all is not well with the boiler and it should be serviced as soon as time permits.
What actions can I take to reduce the chances of Carbon Monoxide Gas poisoning?
Carbon Monoxide Gas is output from a central heating appliance when there is not enough oxygen available for the flame to burn all the gas in the combustion chamber. Gas appliance engineers will check the ventilation and burning efficiency of your gas appliances during the regular maintenance visits eliminating the causes of poor burning. To see to it that you get proficient appliance service you should check that the plumber is CORGI-registered. As a second, very important, line of defence, fit a British Standard approved Co detector with an audible alarm. You should also keep air vents in doors, walls or windows clear – never cover them up to prevent draughts. Also regularly inspect for plants which might be growing near a vent outside as over the course of a year they can also block them. If air is provided through a flue this should be inspected throughout the year to confirm that it has not become blocked by debris or even a nest created by birds. Know the difference between the sound of smoke alarms and Carbon Monoxide Gas alarms. If the Carbon Monoxide detector alarm goes off make sure it is your Co detector and not your smoke detector.
What is the impact of Carbon Monoxide poisoning on people?
Carbon Monoxide is a silent killer so be do not delay if you see any warning marks. It is better to act quickly if you spot any symptoms as prevarication could lead to a death. Take action today and see to it you are able to take action tomorrow. Carbon Monoxide Gas poisoning can affect anyone irregardless of age. Favourite animals can also be impacted.
Does Co poisoning exhibit any symptoms?
You may observe common influenza like symptoms in somebody who is actually suffering from Co inhalation with features like: -
- ongoing head aches
- instability
- fatigue
- sickness
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 outside and ensure that your gas appliances are inspected by a CORGI registered service engineer.