What Are the Warning Signs of a Carbon Monoxide Leak?
Carbon monoxide (CO) is called the “silent killer” for a reason. It’s clear, odorless and hard to recognize without the right tools. If it builds up in your home, it can rapidly turn into a serious hazard for you and your family. So, how do you stay safe against something you can’t really notice naturally?
The key is to install carbon monoxide detectors. These safety devices are your first line of defense, warning you about the presence of CO gas before the situation reaches dangerous levels. But other than a detector going off, how can you know if there’s a carbon monoxide leak in your home? Here are 10 clues to keep an eye on.
1. Condensation on Windows Near Appliances
If you spot heavy condensation on your windows, particularly near a combustion-based system like a gas fireplace, this could mean that there’s an issue with ventilation. While condensation alone isn’t always CO-related, this still deserves a closer look.
2. Discoloration or Soot-Like Stains
Fuel-powered appliances should always have unobstructed ventilation. If you see brownish-yellow or sooty stains around a heater or gas fireplace, combustion isn’t happening as it should. This can signal a carbon monoxide risk.
3. Exhaust Fumes Appear Indoors
If you can smell exhaust fumes indoors, you are in danger of carbon monoxide symptoms. Gas-burning items like cars, charcoal grills and generators should exclusively be used outdoors to avoid the buildup of exhaust fumes indoors.
4. Soot in or Around Your Fireplace
Your fireplace vent should remove smoke and other gases up and out the chimney. Seeing soot buildup around your fireplace is cause for concern, especially if there’s excessive amounts. An obstructed flue in the chimney could be why carbon monoxide is leaking back into your home.
5. Weak or No Draft from the Chimney
Staying on the topic of chimneys, a properly working one needs the strong airflow to fully ventilate smoke and other fumes. If you detect weak airflow or even no draft at all, the chimney could be obstructed, sending carbon monoxide back into your home.
6. Yellowish or Flickering Flames
All appliances that use gas should have a clear blue flame. When the flame is weaker and yellow (and it’s not a decorative gas fireplace), it can mean the gas isn’t burning properly and might be emitting carbon monoxide.
7. Solid Fuel Fires Aren’t Burning as Fast
If your wood-burning stove starts struggling to burn all the way through or has trouble even staying on, it could be dealing with a venting problem, increasing the risk of CO buildup.
Signs You May Have CO Poisoning
If you don’t catch the initial warning signs of a carbon monoxide leak in time, the next warning could come from your health. Symptoms of CO poisoning include:
- Flu-like symptoms
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Shortness of breath
- Confusion
- And fatigue
If you or anyone in your home experiences these symptoms, especially combined with any of the warning signs listed above, move outdoors immediately and contact emergency services.
Preventing CO Leaks and Top Safety Tips
Taking all the proper precautions is key, especially regarding carbon monoxide. First, check that there are carbon monoxide detectors in all the right places. Building codes require them close to any bedrooms, on each level of your home and in rooms with gas-powered equipment. For extra safety, it’s best to install interconnected detectors so that when one detects carbon monoxide, all of them will sound. Check your alarms monthly and replace them as needed, usually every five to seven years.
In addition to installing and maintaining carbon monoxide detectors, keep these safety precautions in mind:
- Work with local Experts to regularly inspect your heating system, fireplace and all other fuel-burning appliances.
- Never use grills, portable generators or similar equipment indoors or in enclosed spaces.
- Use your stove vent when cooking with a gas stove, and avoid using these appliances as a heat source.
Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing Goes Above and Beyond to Help Keep Your Household Safe
At Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing, we understand the dangers of carbon monoxide gas leaks. That’s why our team delivers the best possible service for your heating and ventilation needs. We’ll keep your home comfortable, cost-efficient, and most importantly, safe. Please contact us today to confirm you have the best precautions against carbon monoxide leaks.
