Fuel poverty

Individuals living in fuel poverty face an elevated risk of carbon monoxide poisoning due to several interconnected factors related to their living conditions and challenges in accessing adequate heating and energy resources.

Fuel poverty occurs when households are unable to afford the energy required for a comfortable and healthy living environment.


 

There are recognised shortcomings in existing data on carbon monoxide exposure levels. Recorded deaths and injuries attributable to carbon monoxide poisoning have occurred across different tenancy types and socio-economic groups.

However, it may be safely assumed that there is a reasonable overlap between those households qualifying for Priority Services Register assistance and carbon monoxide exposure risk.

Results from a Department of Health study in 2011 suggested that one-fifth of lower-income households could regularly be exposed to carbon monoxide levels above WHO guidance.

The CO Research Trust funded a project carried out by National Energy Action. This research sought to understand carbon monoxide knowledge, behaviour and practices among low-income households.


 

Read more about this project here.

The Trust also welcomed Peter Smith, Director of Policy and Advocacy at NEA, to the 2025 Lecture Series to discuss the "progress to address the link between fuel poverty and carbon monoxide exposure". You can watch the lecture below: 

Inadequate Heating Systems

Fuel poverty often results in households using older or poorly maintained heating systems. Inadequate heating systems can lead to incomplete combustion of fuel, increasing the likelihood of carbon monoxide production.

Use of Unvented Appliances

Individuals in fuel poverty may rely on unvented appliances, such as portable heaters or stoves, as alternative heating sources. These appliances can produce carbon monoxide if not properly ventilated or maintained.

Poor Ventilation

Fuel-poor households may have limited access to proper ventilation. Inadequate ventilation can trap carbon monoxide indoors, especially in spaces where fuel-burning appliances are used.

Overcrowded Living Conditions

Overcrowded living conditions, often a consequence of fuel poverty, can exacerbate the risks of carbon monoxide exposure. Limited space may lead to inadequate ventilation, increasing the concentration of carbon monoxide in the air.

Incomplete Combustion

The use of outdated or malfunctioning heating appliances can result in incomplete combustion of fuel. Incomplete combustion produces higher levels of carbon monoxide, increasing the risk of exposure.

Lack of Maintenance

Individuals in fuel poverty may struggle to afford regular maintenance for heating appliances. Poorly maintained systems are more prone to leaks and malfunctions, leading to increased carbon monoxide emissions.

Reliance on Solid Fuels

Some households in fuel poverty may rely on solid fuels, such as wood or coal, for heating, as they may be cheaper than gas or electricity. Improper combustion of these fuels can release carbon monoxide into the indoor environment.

Limited Awareness and Education

Residents in fuel-poor households may have limited awareness of the dangers of carbon monoxide and the importance of proper appliance maintenance and ventilation.

Restricted Access to Modern Appliances

Fuel poverty can limit access to modern, safer heating appliances with built-in safety features. Older, less efficient appliances may lack the safeguards necessary to prevent carbon monoxide leaks.

Individuals living in fuel poverty face an elevated risk of carbon monoxide poisoning due to several interconnected factors related to their living conditions and challenges in accessing adequate heating and energy resources.

The following measures should be in place to help support those in fuel poverty, and reduce their risk of carbon monoxide exposure.

Carbon Monoxide Alarms

Install carbon monoxide alarms in living areas, especially near bedrooms. These alarms can provide early detection of elevated carbon monoxide levels.

Regular Appliance Maintenance

Regular maintenance for heating appliances should be prioritised although this is challenging for many people, due to financial constraints. This includes cleaning, inspections, and repairs to ensure proper combustion and ventilation.

Ventilation

Simple steps can be taken to help improve ventilation in living spaces. This may include opening windows periodically, using exhaust fans, or ensuring proper air circulation. This helps prevent the build up of carbon monoxide.

Access to Support Programs
Support programs and initiatives are available that provide assistance with heating, insulation, and energy efficiency improvements.

Education and Awareness
Promoting awareness of the risks of carbon monoxide and the importance of preventive measures within communities facing fuel poverty.

Addressing the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning in individuals living in fuel poverty requires a multifaceted approach that includes improved access to safe heating solutions, education, and support programs.

By implementing preventive measures, communities can work toward reducing the impact of fuel poverty on carbon monoxide exposure and associated health risks.