CORGI, the UK gas safety watchdog, is urging consumers not to cut back on essential servicing of maintenance of their gas appliances, even in the face of increased fuel costs.

All gas carrying appliances, such as boilers, gas cookers and water heaters, need to be serviced annually by a CORGI registered installer to ensure they are working safely and efficiently. Appliances which malfunction are at greater risk of producing carbon monoxide, the odourless, invisible gas known as 'the silent killer'.

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Carbon monoxide is potentially fatal, and even low levels of the poison can leave you with lasting damage to your health. It kills around 30 people and injures hundreds more each year.

Nigel Dumbrell, Trust Manager of The CORGI Trust and Chair of the Carbon Monoxide Consumer Awareness Alliance (COCAA), said: "The temptation may be for consumers to put off having boilers or other appliances serviced because of the increase in other household bills but it is a potentially dangerous compromise. CORGI recommends that appliances should be serviced annually and that the work should be carried out by a CORGI registered installer.

"Consumers can greater reduce their risk of exposure to carbon monoxide by simple regular maintenance. A serviced appliance will also be more efficient and will ultimately save money in the long run."

(CD/JM)