Silent Killer Nearly Strikes Again

Mother Hospitalized last week by massive Monoxide leak

Sharpe Gas Technicians were called to property in Adelaide after a mother was found by her daughter lying unconscious in their living room. The mother had to be hospitalized with severe Carbon Monoxide poisoning.

Our technicians determined the culprit to be a faulty gas heater flue. An unlicensed gas-fitter had installed a flue that was both an incorrect type and far too small. This allowed rust to form inside, resulting in a number of blockages.

Airflow restrictions like this are a primary cause of carbon monoxide production. Natural Gas in the wrong hands can be highly dangerous.

Any gas work should be conducted by a Licensed Gas Technician.

Sharpe Expert Gas Fitter “Dan” attended the house with the Carbon Monoxide Leak mentioned above. His advice regarding carbon monoxide:

Q: What are the signs that I’ve got a carbon monoxide leak?

A: Carbon Monoxide is deadly because you can’t see or smell it, although there are signs that you may be at risk.

If you notice black marks or discolouration on your gas appliance or flue, call a licensed gas technician immediately. If the flames are no longer blue or excessively large, then there is incomplete combustion of the gas and so carbon monoxide is likely to be present.

Dust or debris around the flue pipe is also a warning sign of blockages.

Homeowners should be aware of the early physical symptoms of carbon monoxide exposure such as: headaches, dizziness and breathlessness.