Carbon monoxide is commonly referred to as the silent killer since it is invisible, odorless, and tasteless making this toxic gas a major threat to life and one of the most overlooked hazards in our homes. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, close to 450 people die annually and 20,000 others are admitted to the emergency room due to accidental carbon monoxide poisoning. These numbers strike during winter when your AC or any heating system is running overtime. We, Melbourne 24 Hour Plumbing, are here to ensure your safety from carbon monoxide poisoning. We are licensed gas experts.

How to test for carbon monoxide

Since carbon monoxide is tasteless, colorless, non-irritating, and odorless, the ideal way to test for its presence is using an electronic combustion kit/ testing equipment. The electronic combustion instrument makes CO detection faster and easier allowing the technicians to identify fluctuating CO levels that seem impossible to measure using other means. For instance, a change that is as small as 1 ppm can be detected using this instrument.

When our technician, equipped with this instrument-electronic analyzer, visits your home, they perform an ambient carbon monoxide check around your house and near the electrical heating appliances. This is essential to protect your life and the life of the technician as well.

The Different ways to test for carbon monoxide poisoning/ leaks

There are different methods we use to test for carbon monoxide leaks in your home. The leaks should be frequently checked even when there are no signs. Unlike liquid petroleum gas, CO is tasteless and odorless, yet it can greatly ruin your health before you identify the leak.

Battery-operated CO detector

The testing unit can be installed on every floor of your house. You can choose a design that can detect both smoke and heat. The good thing about this unit is that it is fully operational even when there is a blackout, but you should monitor the batteries and change them when needed.

Electric CO detector

This type of carbon monoxide detector is wired to your electrical system including a smoke alarm. This instrument can also detect heat and smoke. This detector should be on every floor in your house and should be installed high since carbon monoxide is lighter than air.

Professional carbon monoxide testing

HVAC professionals are trained in different methods of carrying out carbon monoxide testing. The common method is where the professional uses an ambient air tester that indicates a digital readout of carbon monoxide levels. Another great method is the use of a pump-driven analyzer, which is ideal for identifying the appliance causing the leak. The most effective instrument is the combustion analyzer which not only detects carbon monoxide but will show the levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide.

Portable CO meter

This carbon monoxide detector is useful for testing CO levels near your gas-powered appliances. It’s a flexible/handy way to test for CO levels in your rooms. This unit can be wired with a battery backup, but there is the option of a battery-powered model.

Litmus paper

A chemical indicator such as a litmus paper can be used to check the presence of CO. The litmus paper turns blue when carbon monoxide is present.

Signs of carbon monoxide leaks

Even if you have done a carbon monoxide testing process or have not installed a detector, there are signs you can look for that indicates a possible leak:

• The pilot light blows out frequently.
• Condensation builds up on your windows or near gasp appliances.
• Orange or yellow flames on your gas stovetop. Your burner should always emit a blue flame when burning normally.
• Smoke builds up when you are using your wood fireplace.
• Soot stains around your gas appliances.

The benefits of carbon monoxide testing

1. Early warnings: Carbon monoxide detectors detect even traces of this toxic gas. The detectors are loud enough and will wake up anyone who is sleeping. If the levels of CO start to increase the alarm gives you enough warning, thus enough time to escape.
2. The alarm sounds before you experience the symptoms of CO poisoning: The initial signs are headache, dizziness, confusion, weakness, and nausea. Prolonged exposure may lead to loss of consciousness and even death.
3. The alarms are accurate when detecting CO levels: The alarms will detect the rising levels of CO before any individual experiences the symptoms. The high-accuracy alarms utilize electrochemical sensing that alerts you soon to get out of the house.

Hire a gas expert in Melbourne

Call Melbourne 24 Hour Plumbing to conduct a carbon Monoxide inspection for any gas leaks. Our experts have many years’ experience in dealing with gas leaks thus ensuring your safety at home. We also carry out other repairs such as burst pipes, hot water systems, leaking pipes, and gas plumbing. Call us today on 1300 931 384.