Why Every London Home Needs a Carbon Monoxide Alarm: Protect Your Family with Rare Plumbing
🔎 What Is Carbon Monoxide and Why Is It So Dangerous?
Carbon monoxide (CO) is an invisible, odourless, and tasteless gas that can be deadly even in small amounts. Produced by gas, oil, coal, and wood appliances, CO becomes dangerous when those systems malfunction or are poorly ventilated. It’s called the “silent killer” for a reason — without a detector, you won’t know it’s there until it’s too late.
⚠️ The Health Risks of Carbon Monoxide Exposure
When carbon monoxide is inhaled, it replaces oxygen in your bloodstream, starving vital organs. Symptoms often mimic the flu, including:
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Shortness of breath
- Confusion or fatigue
Severe exposure can lead to unconsciousness or death. Children, the elderly, and people with respiratory conditions are particularly at risk. This is why every home with gas appliances, fireplaces, or attached garages must have a working carbon monoxide alarm.
🛡️ Why Every Household Should Install a Carbon Monoxide Alarm
A carbon monoxide alarm is your first line of defence. It detects dangerous levels of CO in real time and sounds a loud alert before symptoms occur — even while you’re asleep.
Benefits of CO Alarms:
• Early Detection Saves Lives – Respond to rising levels before they become fatal.
• 24/7 Monitoring – Protects your household even while you sleep.
• Essential for Modern Homes – Especially important if you use gas boilers, fires, or cookers.
🔋 Why We Recommend 10-Year Sealed Battery Units
At Rare Plumbing London, we only install high-performance carbon monoxide alarms — including the latest 10-year sealed battery models. These alarms provide:
- ✅ Hassle-free protection (no battery changes required)
- ✅ Long-term reliability and peace of mind
- ✅ Cost-effective safety over the life of the alarm
📍 Where to Install Carbon Monoxide Alarms in Your Home
To ensure maximum protection, install CO alarms in the following locations:
- Near sleeping areas – So you’ll hear them if you’re asleep
- Each floor of the property – Including the basement or loft
- Next to fuel-burning appliances – Such as boilers, cookers, or gas fires
Need help placing or fitting your alarm? Our team can guide you during your next boiler servicing in London.
🔧 Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Alarm Working
- Test the alarm monthly
- Don’t paint over it or block vents
- Replace the full unit every 10 years, even sealed models
- Look for a visible expiry date
📘 What to Do If You Suspect Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
If your carbon monoxide alarm sounds or you suspect exposure:
- Immediately open all windows and doors
- Turn off gas appliances if safe to do so
- Evacuate the property
- Call the National Gas Emergency Service on 0800 111 999
- Seek urgent medical attention if symptoms occur
For more information, visit the NHS advice on carbon monoxide poisoning.
🧰 Why Choose Rare Plumbing for Installation?
At Rare Plumbing, we’re more than just plumbers. We’re Gas Safe registered and trusted by households across London for our white-glove service. When it comes to safety, we never cut corners. Whether it’s a one-off alarm installation or part of a home heating upgrade, our engineers are here to help.
💬 FAQs on Carbon Monoxide Alarms
Q1. Are carbon monoxide alarms required by law in London?
Yes, homes with fuel-burning appliances are legally required to have a carbon monoxide alarm installed.
Q2. How often should I test my carbon monoxide alarm?
Test your alarm once a month and replace it after 10 years — even sealed units have an expiry.
Q3. Do I need a CO alarm if I have an electric boiler?
Electric boilers don’t produce carbon monoxide, but if you have a gas cooker, fireplace, or garage, you still need protection.
Q4. Can Rare Plumbing install CO alarms during a boiler service?
Absolutely. We can integrate new alarms with your annual boiler servicing or boiler installation visit.
📞 Book Your Carbon Monoxide Alarm Installation
For professional, discreet carbon monoxide alarm installation, speak to the experts at Rare Plumbing London. We serve homes across Marylebone, Hampstead, St John’s Wood, Knightsbridge, and beyond.
📍 Based in Central London
📞 Call us on 020 7458 4949
