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Many of us have gas appliances in the home, and while they are efficient and convenient hey can also be extremely dangerous. Most people automatically assume the biggest danger associated with gas appliances is the risk of a fire in the home; however, that is not the case. Nearly all injuries and deaths associated with gas appliances are caused by the silent killer, carbon monoxide. In fact, an average of 14 people are killed each year by carbon monoxide poisoning in the home.
Carbon Monoxide is odorless, tasteless and takes only minutes to cause loss of consciousness. Today, we would like to pass on some helpful safety tips regarding gas appliances and their maintenance. We’ll also go over some of the red flags that are indicators of a potential problem with your gas appliances. So, let’s get started.
Detecting Danger
Carbon monoxide and gas detectors are a must for any home. Place a combo unit (Co2, gas and smoke detector) around any gas appliance in the home. Most cases of carbon monoxide poisoning occur while victims sleep and almost always results in death.
No Combustibles
Be sure to keep all combustibles materials away from any gas operated appliance. This means anything that can catch fire, so it’s best to just leave the area surrounding the appliance clear and clean.
Breathing Room
All gas appliances should be housed in a room with a fresh air source. Gas appliances release microscopic amounts of gases that can collect in a confined area. Confined gases can cause an explosion or lead to carbon monoxide poisoning.
Code Yellow
If you notice a lazy, yellow flame and soot build up in or around a gas appliance, call a professional. A lazy, yellow flame and soot are indicators of too much gas being released from the appliance; this can result in poisoning, fire or both. Don’t wait before its too late, call a professional IMMEDIATELY!
Moving Violation
Unless you are a trained professional, never attempt to relocate gas operated appliances. Not only is there the risk of a fire or gas leak, you also risk destroying the fittings. In order to avoid damaging the appliance or hurting yourself, call a reputable company with gas experience.
Strike First
If you must relight a pilot, make sure to light the match first and then turn on the gas. Once the match is lit and the gas is on, light the pilot immediately.
So, in summary, carbon monoxide poisoning and fires occur when:
- Appliances are poorly installed
- An appliance is not working correctly
- Lack of maintenance
- Appliances not stored in a room with fresh air source
Following these simple safety tips can greatly reduce your chances of being a victim of carbon monoxide poisoning or gas related fire. Remember, never try and make any repairs to your appliances unless you are trained in working with gas appliances. Michael & Son’s plumbing services technicians are fully capable and certified to work on all makes and models of gas appliances. Don’t risk death, injury or damage to your home, call Michael & Son and leave the hard work to us. Also, like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and subscribe to our YouTube page and find out about special offers, upcoming events and much more!
