Leaving no smell and having no taste Carbon Monoxide Gas is very dangerous and toxic. Carbon Monoxide Gas can be produced by a gas appliance when there is insufficient oxygen in the air supply to the burning chamber, it is also created by faulty gas fires and other gas appliances. The stock flue gases from a gas appliance, or other gas appliance such as a gas fire, contain Co2, this is displaced by Carbon Monoxide Gas when the oxygen levels are decreased. Building rules prescribing air prerequisites and the widespread accessibility gas appliance servicing services has reduced the relative incidence of Carbon Monoxide poisoning although there are still 30 deaths per year.
Can I check my central heating appliances to see if Co could be a problem?
Gas burning in an oxygen poor atmosphere can produce visible deposits which can discolour gas appliances and the walls surrounding them. Another way to check for gas burning problems is to inspect pilot lights and see whether they are burning with a yellowed or other colour flame rather than the blue light of a well maintained system. If the flame changes from blue to yellowed or orange this could mean that Carbon Monoxide is present and you should have the appliance inspected by a professional person.
Tell me how to reduce the chances of Carbon Monoxide related illness.
Bad ventilation resulting in lack of oxygen leads to the production of poisonous Carbon Monoxide Gas. The underlying cause of Carbon Monoxide Gas production is lack of air to a gas flame. A CORGI-registered engineer should be employed to service your gas appliances. Carbon Monoxide detectors can give a warning of abnormal Co levels, models with a loud alarm are the most effective at warning the inhabitants of the home. Air air bricks and panels should be kept open and checked throughout the year to make sure that the designed air flow is kept to your gas appliances. Also regularly inspect for plants which might be developing near a vent outside as over the course of a year they can also block them. chimney ventilation can become blocked in the summer by a birds nest and you may not notice id a fire is not used in the summer so a visual inspection should be incorporated in your home maintenance plans. 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 noises so you know which detector was triggered off.
What are the risks with Carbon Monoxide Gas poisoning?
If you suspect there is Carbon Monoxide Gas in your home you should err on the side of caution. signs can be similar to other sicknesses so act quickly if you have any doubts. Seek help without delay. Anyone can fall victim to Co poisoning, even the fit and healthy. Your Favourite animals could also be injured or worse.
What should I look for as early marks of poisoning from Carbon Monoxide Gas?
Carbon Monoxide Gas poisoning exhibits symptoms which can appear like other sicknesses, for example: -
- persistent headaches
- light headiness
- fatigue
- biliousness
Your gas appliances must be inspected by a CORGI registered gas plumber if you see anyone in your home with similar signs. Open windows and improve air flow while you wait and ensure that no one stays in the home until the all clear has been given.
