Carbon Monoxide could call in your dwelling house
Carbon Monoxide could call in your dwelling house
Carbon Monoxide Gas is highly toxic and cannot be smelled or tasted. The gas is a result of combustion with insufficient oxygen supply such as can happen in a poorly ventilated boiler. The lack of oxygen means that Co is produced rather than the less dangerous Carbon Dioxide. Many people suffer from Carbon Monoxide poisoning each year although the implementation of strict gas appliance air ordinances and access to professional maintenance and servicing has cut the number of deaths to 30.
Can I look at my central heating to see if Co could be a problem?
One way of visually checking for likely problems is to check for marks of spotting, sooting or discolouration on or around boilers, fires and water heaters. A yellowish pilot is an indication of a problem in the gas combustion chamber which may be caused by a lack of oxygen through poor air. 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 inspected by a professional.
What actions can I take to reduce the chances of Carbon Monoxide Gas poisoning?
The underlying cause of Co production is lack of ventilation to a gas flame. Gas appliance engineers will check the ventilation and combustion efficiency of your gas appliances during the regular maintenance visits eliminating the causes of poor burning. A CORGI-registered plumber should be employed to service your gas appliances. Co detectors, carrying a British Standard kite mark, are an important add-on to a plan to protect your home against possible poisoning by Carbon Monoxide Gas gas. Air vents maintain the mandatory air flow to you gas appliances and it is crucial that these are kept free of any obstructions as this could result in a decreased flow of air. On many 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. If your home has a flue to provide appliance air look out for birds nests in the spring as the creation of a nest in a flue which is not being used in the warm weather could completely block the air when required in the winter. ensure that you are aware of the different sounds from your smoke alarms and your Co alarms. If the Carbon Monoxide Gas detector alarm noises be certain that it was your Carbon Monoxide Gas detector and not your smoke detector.
What are the risks with Carbon Monoxide poisoning?
Co kills so do not take any risks if you suspect you may be suffering from breathing in of the gas. Do not read this or other articles and form your own judgment. Quick action can save your and your family’s lives. Co poisoning strikes at all age groups, not just the old or enfeebled. It is common for Pets to be harmed in the same way as humans.
Does Co poisoning exhibit any signs?
Many times Carbon Monoxide poisoning results in typical flu like signs such as: -
- headaches which occur daily
- dizziness
- fatigue
- sickness
Your gas appliances must be inspected by a CORGI registered gas engineer 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 given.