All You Need to Know About Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide (CO), often called the “silent killer”, is an odourless, colourless gas that can cause serious and even life-threatening health issues. This invisible danger is produced by common household appliances — from gas heaters to hot water systems.

At Solutions Plumbing & Maintenance, we help Melbourne homeowners stay safe with carbon monoxide testing, appliance servicing, and gas safety checks. Here’s everything you need to know to protect your home and family.

How is Carbon Monoxide Produced?

Carbon monoxide is created when fuels like gas, oil, wood, or coal don’t burn completely. It’s common in homes with:

• Gas stoves

• Gas hot water systems

• Space heaters

• Wood or coal fireplaces

• Car engines running in garages

Because CO is invisible and odourless, you won’t notice it until it’s too late — making detection and prevention absolutely critical.

Common Sources of Carbon Monoxide in the Home

• Gas heaters (especially unflued or unserviced)

• Gas hot water systems

• Cooking appliances (gas stoves/ovens)

• Fireplaces (wood or coal)

• Vehicles running in garages

• Fuel-powered tools like chainsaws, mowers, or generators

Even something as simple as leaving a car running in the garage with the door open can quickly build up dangerous levels of CO inside your home.

Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Because carbon monoxide is odourless, symptoms often get mistaken for the flu or food poisoning. Watch out for:

• Headaches and dizziness

• Nausea or vomiting

• Chest pain or difficulty breathing

• Sudden tiredness or confusion

• Flu-like symptoms that improve when leaving the house

⚠️ In severe cases, high CO exposure can cause brain damage, unconsciousness, or even death. Pregnant women, children, and the elderly are especially vulnerable.

Detecting Carbon Monoxide: Why CO Detectors Are Essential

Since carbon monoxide can’t be seen or smelled, detectors are your best defence. A CO detector sounds an alarm if unsafe levels are detected in your home.

• Install detectors near bedrooms and living areas

• Test them regularly and replace batteries

• Replace units every 5–7 years

Think of it as a smoke alarm for gas safety — a simple device that can save lives.

Ventilation: Fresh Air Matters

Good ventilation helps prevent CO build-up indoors. Always:

• Keep rooms ventilated when using gas heaters or stoves

• Never use BBQs, portable gas heaters, or generators indoors

• Avoid running cars in enclosed garages

Even cracking a window can make a difference in reducing CO risk.

Responding to Suspected Carbon Monoxide Exposure

If you suspect a CO leak or poisoning:

1. Get everyone (including pets) outside into fresh air immediately.

2. Call 000 if anyone is experiencing symptoms.

3. Turn off all gas appliances and open windows/doors to ventilate.

4. Call a licensed plumber/gas fitter to test and service your appliances.

At Solutions Plumbing & Maintenance, our team provides urgent CO testing and gas safety checks across Melbourne.

Prevention: How to Stay CO-Safe in Melbourne Homes

• Service gas heaters and appliances annually

• Install CO detectors near bedrooms and living spaces

• Ensure proper ventilation in rooms with gas appliances

• Have a licensed plumber test your home for carbon monoxide leaks

• Replace old or unsafe appliances before they become dangerous

Prevention is simple — but it could save your life.

Legal Standards in Australia

In Victoria, landlords and homeowners have a legal duty to maintain gas appliances in line with Australian Standards. Regular servicing by a licensed gas plumber is not just recommended — it’s required for safety compliance.

Protect Your Home from Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide is a silent, invisible danger — but with the right precautions, you can keep your home safe.

At Solutions Plumbing & Maintenance, we provide:
✅ Carbon monoxide testing
✅ Gas heater servicing & safety checks
✅ Gas appliance installation & repairs
✅ 24/7 emergency plumbing & gas services across Melbourne

📞 Call Solutions Plumbing & Maintenance today on 0448 535 629 for professional carbon monoxide testing in Melbourne and ensure your family is safe.