Why You Need a CO Alarm
As a HETAS-approved chimney sweep serving Cambridge and surrounding areas, we understand the critical importance of carbon monoxide safety. This technical guide explains the science behind CO risks and why regular chimney maintenance by qualified professionals is essential for your safety.
Understanding Carbon Monoxide Science
Carbon monoxide’s interaction with the human body is fundamentally different from carbon dioxide. To understand this crucial difference:
The Blood Cell Transport System
Think of your blood cells as delivery vehicles:
- Normal function: Collecting oxygen (like trucks collecting fuel)
- Regular delivery: Transporting CO2 waste to lungs for removal
- CO interference: Creates permanent blockages in the system
The Chemical Difference
Carbon monoxide’s molecular behaviour is particularly dangerous because:
- Blood cells have 300 times greater affinity for CO than oxygen or CO2
- CO bonds permanently to haemoglobin
- Affected blood cells remain compromised for their entire 120-day lifespan
- Recovery requires the body to produce new blood cells
Understanding Fire Chemistry and CO Production
Combustion Process
The waste products of fuel burning create what’s known as a eutectic mixture:
- Carbon (C)
- Carbon dioxide (CO2)
- Carbon monoxide (CO)
Risk Factors in Cambridgeshire Properties
Common issues we encounter across our service area include:
- Victorian chimney systems in Cambridge’s historic districts
- Period properties in Ely with original fireplaces
- Modern installations in Newmarket new-builds
- Complex flue systems in Saffron Walden’s listed buildings
Professional Detection and Prevention
As Trading Standards Approved and Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps certified professionals, we recommend:
Regular Maintenance
- Professional chimney sweeping
- CCTV surveys for thorough inspection
- Creosote removal when required
- Comprehensive flue cleaning
Warning Signs
Yellow or smoky flames indicate:
- Incomplete combustion
- Potential flue blockage
- Increased CO production
- Immediate need for professional inspection
Frequently Asked Questions About Carbon Monoxide Safety
What makes carbon monoxide so dangerous?
Carbon monoxide bonds permanently to blood cells, preventing them from carrying oxygen for up to 120 days. Unlike CO2, which is easily expelled, CO causes long-term damage to your body’s oxygen transport system.
What are the early warning signs of CO exposure?
Initial symptoms can be subtle and often mistaken for flu:
- Mild headache
- Slight nausea
- Eye irritation
- General fatigue At higher concentrations, symptoms become more severe, including intense headaches and dizziness.
How do chimney problems contribute to CO risks?
Blocked or poorly maintained chimneys force combustion gases back into living spaces. This restricted airflow changes the combustion process, potentially increasing CO production by up to 250%.
What type of CO alarm should I install in my Cambridge home?
Install EN 50291-compliant alarms with audible warnings. In period properties with multiple floors, consider having interconnected alarms for maximum safety coverage.
How often should I have my chimney checked for CO safety?
Following Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps guidelines:
- Wood burners: Quarterly during heavy use periods
- Open fires: Annual pre-winter inspection
- Gas appliances: Yearly safety check and cleaning
Contact Your Local Chimney Experts
We offer comprehensive chimney services across Cambridgeshire, Suffolk, Essex and Hertfordshire:
- HETAS-approved chimney sweeping
- CCTV chimney surveys
- Cre-away creosote removal
- Emergency support
- Bird nest removal
- Flue cleaning for Agas, gas appliances, and boilers
Contact us for expert chimney services and advice:
- 01223 627012
- hello@ablewight.co.uk
Our HETAS-registered and Trading Standards Approved professionals can advise on your chimney’s specific needs and maintenance requirements across Cambridge, Ely, Newmarket, Royston, Saffron Walden, St Ives, Huntingdon, St Neots, and Bishop’s Stortford.
Why Choose Ablewight?
- HETAS registered professionals
- Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps certified
- Trading Standards Approved
- Extensive local experience
- Comprehensive chimney services
- Expert advice
