Less fumes, more sensors!
Safe use of gas
The gas unit must be protected from dust and connected to a clean and fitted smoke flue. Additionally, there must be sufficient air exchange in the space with the gas unit to ensure the reliability of the device.
If you have any questions regarding the safety of gas appliances, please contact us!
In case of gas faults, call the number 13404.
For the long-term and safe use of gas appliances, they should be regularly – preferably at least once a year – inspected and maintained by a specialist. Also, mismanaged equipment can cause accidents. It is important to observe all maintenance and safety rules.
If you live in Tallinn or Harju County, order a maintenance technician from Eesti Gaas!
Carbon monoxide detectors are mandatory
Carbon monoxide detectors are mandatory in Estonia. The sensor must be installed in all living spaces that are heated by gas or in which the gas unit, for example a water heater, is connected to the chimney. The sensor must be installed on the wall also in the places where there is a other device associated with the combustion process, such as a wood burner stove, a fireplace or a hob.
The carbon monoxide sensor is engaged when the concentration of carbon monoxide in the air approaches a level that is harmful to human health. It is not possible to detect carbon monoxide without a sensor because of its colourless, odourless and tasteless properties. The first signs of carbon monoxide poisoning are headaches, dizziness, tiredness or nausea. Whilst awake, a person may not associate these symptoms with carbon monoxide poisoning, and whilst sleeping they can remain completely undetected.
From Eesti Gaas you can order a high-quality carbon monoxide detector Honeywell XC70:
- Also suitable for use in bathrooms and humid rooms (IP44);
- Its sensor and power source have a life span of 7 years;
- With a manufacturer’s warranty of 7 years.
The standard price for the Honeywell XC70 carbon monoxide detector is € 50. The customers of Eesti Gaas can purchase it for € 47. Price includes tax and postal costs.
Where to install the carbon monoxide detector?
The carbon monoxide detector is compulsory in spaces in which a gas appliance is connected to the chimney, such as kitchens and bathrooms using a water heater. One sensor is intended for use in only one room, as the device only measures the level of CO next to the sensor. For multi-story residential buildings, it is advisable to install a detector on each floor, preferably also in every bedroom.
If the sensor is installed in an area where there is no heater, it must be located close to the breathing radius of the people in the room. For example, in a living room the sensor should be placed on the same level as a person’s face when they are sitting on the sofa. In bedrooms, the carbon monoxide sensor should be as close as possible to the sleeping area.
Unlike the smoke detector, the carbon monoxide sensor must be mounted on the wall of the room, at 0.5 to 1.5 meters from the floor, and up to three meters away from the source of carbon monoxide. The sensor should not be located close to ventilation systems and air vents. If the gas boiler is in the bathroom, make sure that the carbon monoxide sensor is suitable for installation in humid areas.
Maintenance of carbon monoxide detectors
Much like a smoke detector, it is also necessary to make sure that a carbon monoxide sensor is reliably working. In order to do this, you should press the test button once a month, with a beep signal confirming the device’s operating status. The sensor should be cleaned regularly, using either a vacuum cleaner or a cloth. You should also regularly check that the batteries are charged.
