Why Carbon Monoxide Testing Could Save Your Life This Winter

When winter sets in and heaters fire up across Melbourne homes, most people are focused on staying warm—not on potential hidden dangers. But one silent threat that becomes more prominent during the colder months is carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. A professional carbon monoxide test could be the single most important home maintenance decision you make this season.

What Is Carbon Monoxide and Why Is It Dangerous?

Carbon monoxide is a colourless, odourless, and tasteless gas. It is produced when gas appliances—like space heaters, ducted heating systems, or gas hot water units—don’t burn fuel completely. Because CO is invisible and has no smell, it can easily go unnoticed, building up in enclosed spaces and posing a serious health risk.

Symptoms of carbon monoxide exposure can mimic the flu:

• Headaches
  
• Dizziness
  
• Nausea
  
• Shortness of breath
  
• Fatigue
  
  

In higher concentrations or prolonged exposure, carbon monoxide can be fatal. It’s often referred to as a “silent killer” because people can be poisoned while they sleep, never realising there’s an issue.

Why You Should Test for Carbon Monoxide

If your home has a gas heater, especially an older model or one that hasn’t been serviced recently, testing for carbon monoxide is not just smart—it’s essential. Here’s why:

1. Heaters can deteriorate over time.

Cracked heat exchangers or blocked flues can lead to incomplete combustion, increasing CO production.

2. Poor ventilation increases risk.

Winter often means closed windows and doors. Without proper airflow, CO can accumulate quickly indoors.

3. Testing is fast, affordable, and non-invasive.

A licensed plumber uses specialised detection equipment to check for leaks—giving you peace of mind in under an hour.

4. Landlord obligations.

Under Victorian law, landlords must have gas appliances, including heaters, tested every two years by a licensed professional. Failure to do so can have legal consequences.

The Testing Process

At Pro-Action Plumbing, our licensed technicians follow a thorough process:

• Inspect the heater and flue for visible damage or blockages
  
• Use advanced CO detection equipment to measure gas levels in and around the appliance
  
• Test airflow and ventilation to ensure gases are safely exiting the home
  
• Provide a report and recommendation, including repair or replacement if necessary

If dangerous levels of carbon monoxide are detected, we can act quickly to resolve the issue—whether through servicing, replacing a faulty heater, or improving ventilation.

Safety Tips in the Meantime

While professional testing is the only sure way to detect carbon monoxide, there are steps you can take:

• Never use outdoor appliances (like barbecues or camping heaters) inside
  
• Ensure vents and flues are clear and not blocked by furniture or debris
  
• Install a certified carbon monoxide alarm near sleeping areas

Book Your CO Test Today

Winter should be a time for comfort, not concern. If your heater hasn’t been serviced in the past two years, or you’ve experienced symptoms that could be CO-related, it’s time to take action.

Pro-Action Plumbing offers expert carbon monoxide testing across Melbourne’s eastern suburbs, including Ringwood, Croydon, Doncaster, and beyond. Our friendly, qualified team will ensure your home is safe, compliant, and ready for the cold season.