29 Feb 2016
Posted by Orla O'Callaghan 
These days we rely more than ever on the central heating boiler to keep the home warm and to provide hot water. Your boiler may be running all day, day in, day out, but how do know if it is working properly?
If the flame-producing fuel doesn’t burn correctly, then you could be at risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Read our advice about the tell-tale signs, and how to make your home safe.
How do I find carbon monoxide in the home?
You can’t. Carbon monoxide is a silent killer that you can’t see, taste or smell. If the central heating boiler, cooker, heater or fireplace in your home does not get enough ventilation then the fuel may not burn properly, and it could release poisonous carbon monoxide (CO).
Fitting a CO alarm or detector in your home will alert you to the danger of the gas. Also, beware of lazy yellow flames on your cooker hob or appliance (flames should be blue), if the pilot light on your boiler frequently goes out, or there is increased condensation inside the windows. In the Ireland, more than 40 people die from accidental carbon monoxide poisoning every year.
What effect will carbon monoxide have on the occupants of my house?
Exposure to the gas indoors can be evident when occupants show symptoms similar to flu or food poisoning – unusual tiredness, feeling or being sick, headache, difficulty breathing, even loss of consciousness.
Older people, pregnant mothers and young children, and those with chronic heart disease and respiratory problems, are particularly vulnerable. However, unlike the flu you will not have a fever or high temperature. Frequent headaches during the winter – when the central heating is often on – are another sign. The symptoms will disappear when you go away from the building for some time, such as on holiday.
If you believe these flu-like symptoms are linked to CO in your home, stop using all your gas or solid-fuel appliances (except electricity) and open the windows. Visit your GP as soon as possible to check the symptoms, and call Gas Networks Ireland to arrange for a safety inspection on 1850 79 79 79. The carbon monoxide phone line is open Monday – Friday, 8am – 8pm and Saturday 9am – 5.30pm.
What can I do to make my home safe?
As a first step to protect yourself or your family, fit an audible carbon monoxide alarm or detector. In older houses, ensure that air bricks and fireplace chimneys are kept clear. For a combustion appliance, such as a gas central heating boiler, the Gas Networks Ireland recommends that it is regularly serviced by a competent person.
For protection against central heating emergencies you can add Home Membership to your AA home insurance policy. It provides 24-hour assistance with many more household emergencies, including internal electrics, burst pipes, and routine repairs too.
Home Insurance due for renewal? Make sure you check out AA Home Insurance for a €60 discount online.
