A little-known subject, but one that can affect us all. Despite the annual prevention campaigns by the Ministry of Health, many cases of carbon monoxide poisoning are detected each winter. It is also the leading cause of death by poisoning in France (source INEPS). This generally happens after a lack of maintenance on your boiler or poor combustion in your heating system.
Here, the maintenance of a very clogged boiler. The "beep beep beep beep" is that of our carbon monoxide detector going wild.
What is carbon monoxide?
It is an invisible and odorless gas that can be released after poor combustion of a heating appliance (whether you heat with wood, gas, oil, propane...). It is very difficult to spot and therefore very dangerous. It diffuses rapidly into the atmosphere and is absorbed by the lungs during breathing. It is a highly toxic gas.
How does it spread?
Poorly maintained installations can produce excess carbon monoxide, which are pushed back by the installation and spread into the home. That is why the boiler or water heater must be maintained every year, before the heating season. During this maintenance, professionals will specifically check CO levels. This is a legal requirement.
Other sources can also cause poisoning. Such as your long-term auxiliary heating, a poorly installed vent, or a poorly ventilated room...
What are the symptoms?
Several symptoms can indicate carbon monoxide poisoning. The first signs are fatigue, headaches, nausea, dizziness... if they can be spotted quickly, it is possible to avoid the worst.
What should I do if I suspect a risk of poisoning?
The first thing to do is to air out the house immediately and turn off the heating if possible. Then, evacuate your home as quickly as possible and call emergency services.
Our advice
You can take several measures to protect yourself from carbon monoxide in your home:
Air out a room for 10 minutes a day (even in winter).
Also think about maintaining your ventilation system and ensure it is not obstructed (sweeping).
You must also annually maintain your heating and hot water appliances.