How to avoid Carbon Monoxide problems
How to avoid Carbon Monoxide problems
Carbon Monoxide Gas is one of the most toxic gases and it is indiscernible with no smell or taste. Bad ventilation to a boiler can lead to the output of this gas. Correctly functioning gas boilers create Carbon Dioxide, a harmless gas. Reduced oxygen supplies can lead to Carbon Monoxide. Building ordinances prescribing air requirements and the widespread availability gas appliance servicing services has reduced the incidence of Co poisoning although there are still thirty deaths per year.
Can I look at my gas boilers to see if Co could be a problem?
One way of visually checking for potential problems is to check for marks of spotting, sooting or stain on or around gas appliances, fires and water heaters. You can also check pilot lights and other gas flames that commonly burn blue through an inspection chamber if fitted. You should call in a trained engineer to maintain your gas appliances if you notice that the pilot light starts to burn with a yellowish light.
What should I do to protect myself and my family from Co poisoning ?
Co is output from a gas 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 air and burning efficiency of your gas appliances during the regular maintenance visits eliminating the causes of poor burning. Any engineer you contract to service your gas appliances should be CORGI-registered which will see to it that they have the training required to complete the task to the required standards. Fitting a Carbon Monoxide detector with an audible alarm is also a valuable investment to provide early warning of possible Carbon Monoxide poisoning. 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 decreased flow of air. Gas appliances and boilers may not be used in the summer months but air vents can become obstructed at this time through the growth of plants and vegetation in the garden, this is a possible problem which you should keep in mind. Birds can often make nests in chimneys and block the flow of air to gas appliances without you knowing, a visual inspection from the ground should be included within your ventilation action plan. Know the difference between the sound of smoke alarms and Co alarms. If the Carbon Monoxide Gas detector alarm goes off make sure it is your Carbon Monoxide Gas detector and not your smoke detector.
What will Co Poisoning result in?
Carbon Monoxide is poisonous so you should be very careful. It is easy to read about Carbon Monoxide Gas signs and convince yourself that it is not applicable to your situation, protect your health and seek professional advice. Quick action can save your and your family’s lives. Any member of the household can be affected by Carbon Monoxide Gas irrespective of their age. Favourite animals, large and small, are also potential victims.
Does Carbon Monoxide Gas poisoning exhibit any signs?
The symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Gas poisoning can often be confused with other flu like sicknesses and include:-
- ongoing headaches
- light headiness
- extreme tiredness
- upset stomach and sickness
If you notice symptoms such as these when you have gas appliances in the house, stop using the appliance without delay, step-up air to the rooms, take any inhabitants outside and ensure that your gas appliances are inspected by a CORGI registered plumber.
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