Carbon Monoxide and gas appliances, what to be aware of
Carbon Monoxide and gas appliances, what to be aware of
Co is one of the most toxic gases and it is indiscernible with no smell or taste. The gas is a by product of burning with insufficient oxygen supply such as can happen in a poorly ventilated boiler. The deficiency of oxygen means that Carbon Monoxide Gas is produced rather than the less grave Carbon Dioxide. Tragically there are thirty Carbon Monoxide poisoning deaths every year and many more injuries although this could be worse without the implementation of air guidelines and adoption of regular gas boiler servicing.
Will looking at my gas boilers show me I have a Co issue?
Gas burning in an oxygen poor atmosphere can develop visible deposits which can color gas appliances and the walls surrounding them. You can also check pilot lights and other gas flames that ordinarily burn blue through an inspection chamber if fitted. You should call in a trained engineer to maintain your heating system if you notice that the pilot light starts to burn with a yellow light.
Tell me how to reduce the chances of Carbon Monoxide Gas related illness.
Bad ventilation resulting in lack of oxygen leads to the production of poisonous Carbon Monoxide Gas. Checking the components of the exhaust gases should be a standard part of a gas appliance maintenance visit from a trained plumber and this will give early warning of any air issues. Make sure your central heating appliance is serviced annually by a CORGI-registered plumber. Carbon Monoxide detectors, carrying a British Standard kite mark, are an important addition to a plan to protect your home against possible poisoning by Carbon Monoxide Gas gas. Provision of the suggested ventilation to gas appliances is essential and you should regularly scrutinise any air vents to see to it that the flow of air can be maintained. On several 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. And make sure your flue doesn’t become blocked with birds’ nests or other debris. It is important to be aware of the different sounds from your smoke alarms and Carbon Monoxide Gas detectors. In an emergency you need to be aware of the different noises so you know which detector was triggered.
What are the risks with Carbon Monoxide Gas poisoning?
Co is poisonous so you should be very careful. It is better to act quickly if you spot any signs as prevarication could lead to a death. Take action today and ensure you are able to take action tomorrow. Age and full health are no defence against poisoning from Carbon Monoxide. Favourite animals can also be impacted.
What should I look for as early marks of poisoning from Co?
Many times Carbon Monoxide poisoning results in typical influenza like symptoms such as: -
- headaches which take place day-after-day
- balance problems
- weariness
- urge to vomit
A CORGI certified gas engineer should be brought in to scrutinise your gas appliances if you discover these signs in your home. Whilst waiting for the engineer to come you should ensure that you have opened up the windows and everyone has left the house.
