Shielding your home from Carbon Monoxide
Shielding your home from Carbon Monoxide
Carbon Monoxide Gas is one of the most poisonous gases and it is indiscernible with no smell or taste. Bad air to a central heating appliance can lead to the output of this gas. Properly balanced air will result in Carbon Dioxide output, Carbon Monoxide Gas will result if the level of oxygen is limited with decreased air flow or a blocked flue. Many people suffer from Co poisoning each year although the implementation of strict gas appliance ventilation regulations and access to professional maintenance and servicing has cut the number of deaths to thirty.
Will looking at my gas boilers show me I have a Co problem?
Gas burning in an oxygen poor atmosphere can develop visible sediments which can discolour gas appliances and the walls surrounding them. Poor ventilation can reduce the volume of oxygen available to burn gas within a central heating appliance resulting in the production of Co2, in these circumstances a pilot burner may change from burning with the common blue colouring to a yellowish colouration. If the flame changes from blue to yellowed or orange this could mean that Carbon Monoxide Gas is present and you should have the appliance scrutinized by a professional.
Can you do anything to reduce the chances of Carbon Monoxide poisoning?
Carbon Monoxide is output from a gas boiler 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 combustion efficiency of your gas appliances during the regular maintenance visits eliminating the causes of poor combustion. Make sure your boiler is maintained annually by a CORGI-registered engineer. As a second, very important, line of defence, fit a British Standard approved Carbon Monoxide Gas 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 scrutinize 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. Smoke and Co detectors are constructed to make different audible sounds when set off. Take some time to learn the differences so that you are aware of what type of emergency you face when one of your detectors is set off.
How dangerous is Carbon Monoxide Gas Poisoning?
If you suspect there is Co in your home you should err on the side of caution. There are no second chances with poisoning from this gas so do not delay if you suspect anything. Quick action can save your and your family’s lives. Carbon Monoxide Gas poisoning can affect anyone irregardless of age. This also applies to home Pets.
Are there any warning marks of the presence of Carbon Monoxide Gas?
Carbon Monoxide poisoning exhibits signs which can appear like other sicknesses, for example: -
- persistent head aches
- loss of balance
- weariness
- sickness
If you notice signs 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 plumber.