Connswater Homes Repair Manual

Carbon monoxide We service all gas appliances every year and this reduces, as far as possible the risk of there being any problems. The Association will test your detector when carrying out your annual boiler test, however please ensure to test your carbon monoxide detector on a regular basis. However it’s important to be aware of the dangers of carbon monoxide. When gas does not burn properly too much carbon monoxide is produced. You can’t see, taste or smell it but carbon monoxide can kill without warning in a matter of hours. Early symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include feeling tired or drowsy, headaches and pains in the chest and stomach. Gas appliances that have not been properly installed or serviced and do not have enough ventilation can cause carbon monoxide poisoning. The risks are very low as we service gas heating and hot water appliances in your home every year. As a tenant you should take the following precautions: • Never block the air vents in your home, as they provide the air needed by appliances. • Never block outside grills. • Never use a gas appliance if you think it is not working properly. • Signs to look out for include yellow or orange flames, soot and stains around the appliance and pilot lights which frequently blow out. • Always use a Gas safe registered contractor to install and service your gas cooker. • Always allow us access to service the gas appliances in your home. • Never use a rotary ceiling fan in a room at the same time as a gas appliance, this can cause toxic fume hazard.

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