An overview of the perils of Co in the household
An overview of the perils of Co in the household
Leaving no smell and having no taste Carbon Monoxide Gas is very dangerous and poisonous. Bad ventilation to a boiler can lead to the output of this gas. The deficiency of oxygen means that Co is created rather than the less severe Carbon Dioxide. Following the adoption of regular gas appliance servicing and regulations governing ventilation levels deaths from Carbon Monoxide have been held at thirty per annum although there are many more injuries from poisoning.
How can I see I have a Co problem?
Co production is often a result of incomplete burning and this can be seen as the deposit of lampblack discoloring areas near your gas appliances. 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 plumber to maintain your gas boilers if you notice that the pilot burner starts to burn with a yellow light.
Can you do anything to reduce the chances of Co poisoning?
As mentioned Carbon Monoxide is produced when a gas flame burns with insufficient oxygen in the surrounding atmosphere. On the assumption that there are no design faults in the ventilation of your central heating appliance, frequent boiler and gas appliance servicing will help to avoid any troubles which could lead to the production of Co. To ensure that you get proficient appliance service you should check that the engineer is CORGI-registered. Fitting a Carbon Monoxide Gas detector with an audible alarm is also a valuable investment to provide early warning of potential Co poisoning. Gas appliances require enough ventilation and you should check that this is satisfactory, one particular danger area is the covering up of air vents in the summer through home decorating and the warehousing of surplus items. Gas appliances and gas boilers may not be used in the summer months but air vents can become blocked 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 build nests in chimneys and block the airflow to gas appliances without you knowing, a visual inspection from the ground should be included within your air action plan. ensure that you are aware of the different sounds from your smoke alarms and your Carbon Monoxide Gas alarms. If the Carbon Monoxide detector alarm noises be certain that it was your Carbon Monoxide Gas detector and not your smoke detector.
What will Co Poisoning result in?
If you suspect there is Co in your home you should err on the side of caution. Do not study this or other articles and form your own judgement. Quick action can save your and your family’s lives. Age and good health are no defence against poisoning from Carbon Monoxide Gas. Favourite animals can also be impacted.
Does Carbon Monoxide Gas poisoning exhibit any symptoms?
The signs of Co poisoning can often be confused with other influenza like illnesses and include:-
- regular experiences of head aches
- balance problems
- little energy
- upset stomach and sickness
If you notice symptoms such as these when you have gas appliances in the home, stop using the appliance without delay, step-up ventilation to the rooms, take any inhabitants outdoors and ensure that your gas appliances are inspected by a CORGI registered gas engineer.