How to avoid Carbon Monoxide problems
How to avoid Carbon Monoxide problems
Co is a very toxic gas with no taste, no colour and no smell. Co gas can be produced when a central heating appliance is operating with too little air supply provided to the combustion chamber. Correctly operating central heating appliances create Carbon Dioxide, a harmless gas. Reduced oxygen supplies can lead to Co. With high standards of gas boiler servicing and strict ventilation regulations the number of people killed by Carbon Monoxide has decreased to thirty people each year although many more are seriously hurt.
Can you identify a Carbon Monoxide problem if you look at your gas appliances?
Carbon Monoxide output is often a result of incomplete combustion and this can be seen as the deposit of carbon black discolouring surfaces near your gas appliances. Poor airing can reduce the volume of oxygen available to burn gas within a gas boiler resulting in the production of Co2, in these circumstances a pilot may change from burning with the common blue coloring to a yellow colouration. If the pilot in your system starts burning yellowish you should have the boiler serviced by a trained plumber without delay.
Can you do anything to reduce the chances of Co poisoning?
The underlying cause of Co production is lack of air to a gas flame. The underlying cause of Carbon Monoxide Gas production is lack of ventilation to a gas flame. To guarantee compliance with the gas appliance servicing rules make sure that the plumber you hire to service your appliances has CORGI registration. 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. Air ventilation bricks and panels should be kept open and checked throughout the year to make sure that the designed air flow is maintained to your gas appliances. Gas appliances and 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 potential problem which you should keep in mind. Birds can often make 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. Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Gas detectors are constructed to make different hearable noises when triggered. 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?
Co kills so do not take any risks if you suspect you may be suffering from inhalation of the gas. It is better to act quickly if you spot any signs as prevarication could lead to a death. Quick action can save your and your family’s lives. Anyone can fall victim to Carbon Monoxide poisoning, even the fit and healthy. Pets can also be impacted.
What are the symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Gas poisoning?
The signs of Carbon Monoxide Gas poisoning can often be confused with other influenza like illnesses and include:-
- persistent head aches
- dizziness
- little energy
- nausea
Stop using any gas appliances if you notice such signs and see to it that there is good ventilation to the room. As a precaution ask everyone to empty the room and get the appliances inspected by a properly qualified (CORGI) plumber.