Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide (CO) is generated wherever combustion of any carbon based fuel occurs, so that means all gas, oil, coal and wood burning boilers as well as wood burning and solid fuel stoves have the potential to produce dangerous levels of CO gas if installed or operated incorrectly.

CO reduces the blood's ability to supply necessary oxygen to the body's tissues, which can cause stress to the heart. When inhaled at higher levels, CO may cause fatigue, headaches, dizziness, nausea, confusion and disorientation and, at very high levels, unconsciousness and death. As it breaks down rapidly its affects are most apparent in confined spaces.

To avoid the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning stoves should be fitted professionally and be inspected and cleaned every year. In addition, chimneys should be swept at least once a year. It is also now manditory to fit a carbon monoxide detector and a smoke alarm in any room where wood or any other fuel is burned.

The following are recommended to improve the efficiency of appliances and reduce any potential pollution:-

• Burn small, hot fires - they produce much less smoke than ones that are left to smolder.
• Burn seasoned wood. This is wood which has been allowed to try over at least one summer season. Green wood is a major culprit in the creation of creosote.
• Burn logs that are 10 -15 cm (4-6 inches) in diameter. Fires burn better with more surface area exposed to the flame.
• Never burn rubbish, plastics, cardboard, glossy paper or polystyrene.
• Never burn wood that has been taken from salt water. Chlorine combines with the smoke to produce dioxins and furans, which are dangerous carcinogens.
• Never burn treated or painted wood, particulate-board or plywood.
• Store wood outside, off the ground and covered. Bringing green wood indoors to dry can promote the growth of allergy-causing mould spores circulating indoors.
• Have the systems installed by a professional and have it inspected and cleaned every year.
• Replace any worn seals. 
• Make sure the fire is getting enough air - check that the air inlet is open wide enough to keep the fire burning briskly, resulting in complete combustion and less smoke.

Please remember your Woodwarm Stove is perfectly safe to use under these conditions.