As responsible individualswhen we move into a property (house, flat, shop, etc.) we immediately think of installing a smoke detector legal obligation but what about the detectors? carbon monoxide why aren't they more commonly used, when thousands of people die every year as a result? toxic gas let's take a look at these small devices that can help us save your life as much as their smoke-detecting counterparts.

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

CO is a molecule composed of an atom of carbon and an atom ofoxygenodourless, colourless and tasteless, it does not irritate the eyes or respiratory tract and is therefore an enemy of the environment invisible for humans.

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

In the homesthe main sources of CO are households that use carbon-based fuels (wood, coal, gas, oil, etc.), whether they be heating appliances, hot water production systems, ovens or cookers. The main sources of CO are households that use carbon-based fuels (wood, coal, gas, oil, etc.), whether they be heating appliances, hot water production systems, ovens or cookers burnt gases emitted by these appliances always contain a small amount of CO because combustion is never completely complete. 

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

In low doses, it causes symptoms this is why you need to be very vigilant, because once more CO has been inhaled, the symptoms become more severe dangerousheadaches intensify, and drowsiness and confusion can set in, leading to an accident death this toxic gas is not to be taken lightly.

Prevention is the only real thing!

There are several possible scenarios: you are about to have a new heating appliance installed, in which case you should apply for a certificate of conformity which will prove that your equipment has been installed correctly. If your heating installations are already in place, think about having them done check when the cold season arrives, and ask for a certificate from the professional who carried out the work.

In addition to these basic steps, the installation of a carbon monoxide detector is essential.

How does a carbon monoxide detector work?

This device, also known as DAACO, is a small case to be installed in your home (or commercial premises, etc.) cO present in the atmosphere and sounds a warning bell if the quantity of CO becomes too high 50 seconds about.

Some detectors have a display that shows the level of carbon monoxide measured in the room. They must be certified to NF 292 and EN 50291 and their lifespan is between 5 and 7 years.

And where are we installing this little marvel of technology?

It's advisable to fit a carbon monoxide detector in every room with a fireplace combustion deviceif you have a fireplace or stove in the living room or dining room, it will need to be placed at a distance from the fireplace or stove between 1 and 3 metres the same goes for the kitchen if you have a gas cooker.

Your heating appliance is in a laundry a detector must be installed at the corridor entrance.

If your combustion appliance is a fireplaceif you have a chimney, you will need to install a carbon monoxide detector close to the chimney in all the rooms through which the chimney passes.

Now you know how to improve the protection of your home and its inhabitants, don't hesitate to contact us for further information and advice.