Recognising gas boiler safety problems

A gas boiler requires a sound installation, air supply and flue. A gas smell, carbon monoxide alarm or suspected poisoning requires immediate action rather than waiting for routine servicing.

If you smell gas or suspect CO

Do not use flames, electrical switches or a phone inside the affected area. Leave and call for help from outside. For gas emergencies in Zagreb, call 0800 400 400. In immediate danger, if a CO alarm sounds or symptoms such as headache, nausea and dizziness occur, get into fresh air and call 112. Do not return until the responsible emergency service confirms it is safe.

Carbon monoxide has no smell

CO is produced by incomplete combustion and cannot reliably be detected by your senses. The odour added to gas warns of a possible gas leak; it is not a warning you can expect from CO. Do not delay leaving while trying to identify the cause yourself.

Signs that need professional inspection

Soot, changes in appliance operation, repeated shutdowns, unusual condensation or signs of flue damage require inspection. These signs are not enough for a do-it-yourself diagnosis. Do not open the casing, bypass protection or repeatedly restart a faulty appliance.

Prevention

• Arrange servicing and flue inspections according to manufacturer instructions and the requirements of the responsible services.
• Keep ventilation openings clear. Changes to windows, ventilation or extractor fans can affect operation and should be reported to the professional.
• Install and maintain a CO alarm according to its instructions. It does not replace servicing.
• Decide on repair or replacement after inspection, considering the appliance's condition and availability of parts.

Official contacts

See Gradska plinara Zagreb emergency interventions, the 112 emergency number and Civil Protection heating-season advice. Routine plumbing services are not a substitute for emergency services.