While installing a stove is extremely safe if installed correctly, you are advised to read the following to familiarise yourself with the dangers of Carbon Monoxide.
Carbon Monoxide is a highly poisonous gas that has no colour, taste or smell and can be produced by appliances that use gas, wood, oil or coal. It can also be present in smoke from solid fuel or oil appliances.
Carbon Monoxide is potentially fatal and even low levels of the poison can cause lasting damage to your health.
You are at risk from Carbon Monoxide poisoning if:
- your appliance was poorly installed
- your appliance is not working properly
- your appliance has not been safety checked and serviced annually
- there is not enough fresh air in the room
- your chimney or flue is blocked
- you allow people who are not CORGI registered to install or maintain your gas appliances.
Recognising the early symptoms of Carbon Monoxide poisoning will save your life. Symptoms are similar to the Flu:
Nausea, Dizziness, Tiredness, Headaches, Stomach Pains and Chest Pains. If any of these symptoms get better when you are away from your appliance, it could be Carbon Monoxide poisoning.
Have your appliance checked annually by either a CORGI registered installer or HETAS or OFTEC professional. Make sure rooms and heaters are well ventilated. Have your chimneys and flues checked regularly and buy a Carbon Monoxide alarm. If you have a solid fuel appliance you should empty the ash can daily, clean the flue ways and throat plates at the top of the room heater monthly.