A summary of the dangers of Carbon Monoxide Gas in the home
A summary of the dangers of Carbon Monoxide Gas in the home
Carbon Monoxide Gas cannot be tasted and has no odour giving no chance to detect this dangerous gas. The gas is a by product of combustion with insufficient oxygen supply such as can happen in a poorly ventilated boiler. The deficiency of oxygen means that Co is developed rather than the less severe Co2. 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 gas boiler servicing.
Can I review my central heating to see if Carbon Monoxide Gas could be a problem?
If your gas appliances have indications of stain on their surface or on the walls near them you may be seeing some of the results of poor ventilation and production of excess waste gases. Inspecting gas pilot lights can give early warning of a lack of oxygen in the gas appliance as the colour of the pilot light may change from blue to yellow. Treat the pilot burner like a traffic light, if it turns yellowed this is a warning and you should arrange for the gas boiler to be serviced as quickly as you can.
What do people do to avoid the chances of Co inhalation and subsequent illness?
Bad ventilation resulting in lack of oxygen leads to the production of poisonous Carbon Monoxide Gas. Gas appliance combustion problems can be avoided by taking up a regular appliance servicing schedule by trained appliance engineers. To see to it that you get proficient appliance service you should see that the plumber is CORGI-registered. 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. You should also keep air vents in doors, walls or windows clear – never cover them up to prevent draughts. Also regularly scrutinize for plants which might be growing near a vent outside as over the course of a year they can also block them. And make sure your flue doesn’t become blocked with birds’ nests or other rubble. 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 sounds so you know which detector was set off.
What are the dangers associated with Carbon Monoxide Gas Poisoning?
Co is poisonous so you should be very careful. Do not read this or other articles and form your own judgment. Take action today and ensure you are able to take action tomorrow. Anyone can fall victim to Co poisoning, even the fit and healthy. This also applies to home Pets.
What might I see if there was Co in my home?
Many times Carbon Monoxide Gas poisoning results in typical flu like symptoms such as: -
- ongoing head aches
- queasiness
- little energy
- billiousness
Your gas appliances must be inspected by a CORGI registered gas plumber if you see anyone in your home with similar symptoms. Open windows and improve air flow while you wait and see to it that no one stays in the house until the all clear has been established.