What is Carbon Monoxide?
Carbon Monoxide (CO) is a colourless, odourless and tasteless gas that is difficult to identify without the correct detector. On average there are between 1 and 2 deaths in Irish homes every year due to carbon monoxide poisoning. It is known as the silent killer due to it being so difficult to identify.
CO poisoning can be a result of faulty home heating systems or fossil fuels such as oil, coal and turf being burned in the home.
When fuels burn correctly and efficiently, they produce carbon dioxide. But when faulty appliances such as boilers, cookers or heaters do not burn fuel correctly, they release carbon monoxide. CO is dangerous due to how it reacts with the haemoglobin in your blood. Haemoglobin carries oxygen around your body. When you inhale carbon monoxide instead of carbon dioxide, it starves your body of oxygen. This can result in tiredness, dizziness, disorientation or shortness of breath. The symptoms of CO poisoning can be similar to flu symptoms with the exception of a high temperature. It is important to be able to identify the difference as exposure to the gas can result in long-term brain or heart damage.
The Main Causes of Carbon Monoxide in the Home
- Faulty heating appliances
- Poor ventilation
- Blocked chimneys
- Using barbecues indoors
- Running engines such as lawnmowers in garages or sheds
- Using cooking appliances or ovens to heat your home
How to Identify Faulty Appliances in your Home
- Staining or discolouration around appliances
- A yellow or orange flame where it is normally blue
- Condensation or dampness on walls and windows in the room once an appliance is in use
- A strange smell when an appliance is on
- Rusting or water streaking on appliance cabinet/vent/chimney
- Loose or disconnected vent/chimney connections or guards
Protect Your Home From Carbon Monoxide
The best way to protect the occupants of your home against CO is to ensure that your appliances are serviced regularly your home appliances such as vents and chimneys are inspected. Ensure that your rooms are well ventilated and never block vents. Cooking appliances should never be used to heat a room.
Buying a CO alarm is an important step to giving yourself time in the event of a leak. Depending on how many appliances you have, you may require more than one. When shopping for alarms it is important to buy ones that complies with EU standards, have a CE mark and have an expiry date.
What To Do If Your Carbon Monoxide Alarm Goes Off
If you suspect a carbon monoxide leak or carbon monoxide poisoning, you should:
- Ventilate the Area: Open doors and windows immediately.
- Turn Off Appliances: Switch off any potential sources of CO.
- Evacuate: Move everyone outdoors into fresh air.
- Seek Medical Attention: Check to see if you or anyone in your home is suffering symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, if they are call for medical assistance immediately.
- Do Not Re-enter Premises: Only return once the area has been declared safe and do not re-use appliances until they have been checked by a qualified service agent.
- Further Assistance: If you still have concerns, you can contact the Carbon Monoxide Awareness Line on 1800 89 89 89
Carbon Monoxide Alarms – Why Every Home Needs One
A carbon monoxide alarm is one of the most important safety devices you can have in your home. Carbon monoxide alarms detect dangerous levels of CO in the air and alert you with a loud alarm before it becomes harmful. Unlike smoke alarms, they do not detect fire or other gases, so having both in your home is essential.
Where Should You Place a Carbon Monoxide Alarm?
To guarantee maximum protection, follow these guidelines from Gas Networks Ireland:
- Install at least one CO alarm per floor in your home.
- Place alarms near sleeping areas so they can wake you if levels become dangerous at night.
- Position alarms 1 to 3 metres away from fuel-burning appliances (e.g., boilers, fireplaces, stoves).
- Avoid placing them near windows, extractor fans, or areas with excessive moisture.
Choosing the Right Carbon Monoxide Alarm
When buying a CO alarm, make sure it:
- Meets European Standard EN 50291 (look for the CE mark).
- Has a built-in long-life battery or mains power with battery backup.
- Includes an end-of-life warning so you know when it needs replacing.
How Often Should You Replace a CO Alarm?
Most carbon monoxide alarms last 5 to 10 years. Check the manufacturer’s instructions and replace them as recommended to ensure continuous protection.
Installing a carbon monoxide alarm is a simple but crucial step in keeping your family safe. They are widely available in hardware stores, online retailers, and home improvement shops across Ireland.
Carbon Monoxide FAQ
Another way to protect your home is by having Home Insurance in place. Contact KennCo today for a secure and reliable quote for home insurance.