When it comes to gas appliances, one of the most serious dangers lurking in the background is carbon monoxide poisoning. This silent killer is responsible for dozens of deaths and hundreds of hospitalisations every year in the UK — often as a result of poorly installed or maintained gas appliances like cookers and hobs.
As a homeowner or tenant, understanding how carbon monoxide relates to gas cookers and hobs could save your life and the lives of those you love.
What Is Carbon Monoxide?
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colourless, odourless and tasteless gas. It is produced when gas doesn’t burn completely — something that can happen if your gas cooker or hob is faulty, poorly ventilated or incorrectly installed.
Because it’s impossible to see or smell, many victims of carbon monoxide poisoning don’t realise there’s a problem until it’s too late.
Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
The symptoms can easily be mistaken for other illnesses like flu or food poisoning. Watch for:
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue or confusion
- Loss of consciousness in severe cases
If you or anyone in your home starts to experience these symptoms and you suspect carbon monoxide may be the cause, get fresh air immediately and call emergency services.
How Gas Cookers and Hobs Can Be a Risk
While gas cookers and hobs are generally safe when installed and maintained properly, they can become hazardous when:
- Installed by unqualified individuals
- Used in kitchens with poor ventilation
- Damaged, worn out or corroded over time
- Not serviced
Blocked or faulty burner components, incorrect fitting of flexible hoses or improper combustion can all lead to carbon monoxide leaks.
How to Stay Safe
Here are key steps every homeowner should take:
1. Use a Gas Safe Registered Engineer
Only a Gas Safe registered engineer is legally qualified to install or service your gas cooker or hob. They understand the regulations, test for safe combustion and know how to prevent CO leaks.
2. Install a Carbon Monoxide Alarm
Every home with a gas appliance should have a carbon monoxide alarm. Make sure it’s:
- Installed at head height (not on the floor)
- Located near the gas appliance
- Tested regularly
3. Know the Warning Signs
If you notice yellow or orange flames (instead of blue), black soot marks around the appliance or unusual smells, stop using the appliance and call an engineer immediately.
Final Thought
Carbon monoxide poisoning is entirely preventable, but only if you take the right precautions. Don’t take risks with gas — make sure your gas cooker installation is carried out by a professional and your home is fitted with a working CO alarm.
Your safety starts with proper installation.
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