Carbon monoxide (CO) is invisible, odourless and non-irritating. Every winter in Belgium it causes hundreds of poisonings, many of them linked to poorly maintained heating or hot water appliances. The good news: these accidents are preventable.
Where does carbon monoxide come from?
CO forms when a fuel (gas, oil, wood, coal, pellets) burns badly for lack of oxygen. A boiler, water heater or stove in good condition and well ventilated produces practically none. The danger arises when:
- the appliance is dirty or badly adjusted;
- the flue is blocked, cracked or badly connected;
- the room lacks fresh air (blocked ventilation grilles, over-sealed home);
- an old water heater without a flue is installed in a bathroom.
Symptoms of CO poisoning
- Headache, dizziness, unusual tiredness.
- Nausea, vomiting.
- Drowsiness, confusion, then loss of consciousness.
Two clues should alert you: several people (and pets) have the same symptoms at the same time, and the symptoms disappear when you leave the home.
Signs on the installation
- A yellow or orange flame instead of blue.
- Soot marks or black stains around the appliance.
- Heavy condensation on the windows of the room where the appliance is.
- A boiler that often locks out.
How to protect yourself
- Have your boiler serviced by an approved technician: the combustion analysis measures CO precisely. It is also a legal obligation.
- Have the chimney swept if there is one.
- Never block ventilation grilles.
- Install a certified CO alarm in the room where the appliance is. Note: a smoke alarm does not detect CO.
- Replace old appliances: a room-sealed condensing boiler takes its air from outside and discharges its flue gases outside, which greatly reduces the risk.
The role of servicing
At every service, our technicians clean the burner and heat exchanger, check the draught and the flue, and measure the CO level in the combustion gases. It is the most reliable way to make sure your installation is safe.
Frequently asked questions
What are the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning?
Headache, dizziness, nausea, tiredness, then drowsiness and loss of consciousness. Several people are often affected and the symptoms disappear outdoors.
Can a gas boiler produce carbon monoxide?
Yes, if it is dirty, badly adjusted, poorly ventilated or if the flue is blocked. Regular servicing avoids this risk.
Does a smoke alarm detect carbon monoxide?
No. You need a dedicated CO alarm, installed in the room where the heating appliance is.