As responsible people, whenever we move into a place (house, flat, commercial premises, etc.) we immediately think of installing a smoke detector. What is more, it is now a legal requirement. But what about carbon monoxide detectors ? Why are they not more commonly used when thousands of people die every year because of this toxic gas ? Let us take a closer look at these small devices, which can save our lives just as much as their smoke-detecting counterparts.

To begin with, let's talk about carbon monoxide (CO)

CO is a molecule made up of one carbon atom and one oxygen atom. Odourless, colourless and tasteless, it irritates neither the eyes nor the airways, which makes it an invisible enemy for humans.

It can be caused by poor maintenance of your appliances, faulty installation, insufficient ventilation, a blocked chimney or a cracked flue.

In homes, the main sources of CO are fireplaces and appliances that burn a carbon-based fuel (wood, coal, gas, oil, etc.), whether heating appliances, water heaters, ovens or cookers. The flue gases given off by these appliances always contain a small amount of CO because combustion is never completely perfect. 

That's all well and good, but how do you detect CO poisoning ?

At a low dose, it causes symptoms that can resemble those of flu, such as : mild headaches, tiredness, nausea and vomiting. This is why you need to be very vigilant, because once the amount of CO inhaled is greater, the symptoms become more dangerous. Headaches get worse, and drowsiness and confusion can set in and lead to the death of the person poisoned. This toxic gas must therefore not be taken lightly.

Prevention really is the best cure !

Different situations may arise : if you are about to have a new heating appliance installed, remember to ask for a certificate of conformity proving that your equipment has been properly installed. If your heating installations are already in place, remember to have them checked as the cold season arrives, and ask the professional who carried out the work for a certificate as well.

In addition to these basic steps, installing a carbon monoxide detector is essential.

How does a carbon monoxide detector work ?

This device, also known as a DAACO (carbon monoxide alarm), is a small unit to be installed in your home (or commercial premises, etc.). It detects the CO level in the air and sounds an alarm to warn of danger if the amount of CO becomes too high. Carbon monoxide readings are taken approximately every 50 seconds.

Some detectors are fitted with a display showing the carbon monoxide level measured in the room. They must be certified NF 292 and EN 50291, and their service life is between 5 and 7 years.

And where do you install this little technological marvel ?

It is recommended to install a carbon monoxide detector in every room containing a combustion appliance. If you have a fireplace or a stove in the living room or dining room, it should be placed between 1 and 3 metres from the source of CO. The same applies to the kitchen if you have a gas cooker.

Is your heating appliance in a utility room? A detector must be installed at the entrance to it, on the corridor side.

If your combustion appliance is a fireplace, a carbon monoxide detector must be installed near the flue in every room it passes through.

You now know how to improve the protection of your home and its occupants. Please do not hesitate to contact us for any further information and advice.