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 detect without proper tools. If it builds up in your home, it can quickly become a serious hazard for you and your family. So, how do you stay safe against something you can’t see, smell or taste?
The key is to install carbon monoxide detectors. These alarms are the initial line of defense, alerting you to the presence of CO gas before the situation gets dangerous. But aside from a detector going off, how can you know if there’s a carbon monoxide leak in your home? These are 10 clues to watch out for.
1. Condensation on Windows Near Appliances
If you notice heavy condensation on your windows, particularly near a combustion-based system like a gas fireplace, this could suggest that ventilation isn’t working properly. While condensation by itself may not mean CO, this clue warrants investigation.
2. Yellow or Brown Stains
Appliances that run on combusting fuel should always have unobstructed ventilation. If you find brownish-yellow or sooty stains around a heater or gas fireplace, it could mean something’s wrong with the combustion process. This can be a sign of a carbon monoxide risk.
3. Exhaust Fumes Appear Indoors
If you can notice exhaust inside the house, you are in danger of carbon monoxide leaks. Gas-burning items like cars, charcoal grills and generators should exclusively be operated outside to reduce the risk of exhaust fumes indoors.
4. Soot in or Around Your Fireplace
Your fireplace vent should remove smoke and other gases up through and out the chimney. Seeing soot buildup around your fireplace is a warning sign, especially if there’s excessive amounts. A blocked chimney vent could be why carbon monoxide is backdrafting indoors.
5. Weak or No Draft in the Chimney
Speaking of chimneys, a properly working one needs the steady pull to fully ventilate smoke and other fumes. If you find a weak draft or even no draft at all, your chimney could be clogged, pushing carbon monoxide backward.
6. Yellowish or Inconsistent Flames
Most gas-burning appliances should produce a steady blue flame. When the flame is yellow or flickering (and you don’t have a decorative gas fireplace), it means the gas is burning inefficiently and may be emitting carbon monoxide.
7. Solid Fuel Fires Aren’t Burning as Fast
When your wood- or coal-fired stove starts struggling to burn all the way through or has trouble staying lit, it could have a ventilation issue, increasing the risk of CO buildup.
Symptoms of CO Poisoning
If you fail to notice the initial warning signs of a carbon monoxide leak in time, the next clue might come from your body. Symptoms of CO poisoning can be:
- 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 above signs, leave the house right away for fresh air before you dial 911.
Prevent CO Poisoning and Gas Leaks with These Safety Tips
It’s always better to prevent issues than respond to them, especially in the case of CO gas exposure. To start, check that there are carbon monoxide detectors in appropriate places. Building codes require them outside every bedroom, on each floor of your home and in rooms with fuel-burning appliances. For extra safety, it’s wise to set up interconnected detectors so that if one goes off, all of them will alarm you as well. Check your alarms monthly and swap them out when necessary, about every five to seven years.
In addition to having enough carbon monoxide detectors, follow these safety tips:
- Work with local Experts to regularly inspect your heating system, gas or wood fireplace, and any other fuel-burning appliances.
- Avoid using grills, portable generators or similar equipment inside, especially in small spaces.
- Turn on the range hood when cooking with a gas-powered oven, and never use these appliances as a heat source.
Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing Will Help Protect Your Home and Family
At Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing, we know the risks of carbon monoxide exposure. That’s why our team provides the best possible service for your heating and ventilation needs. We’ll keep your home cozy, cost-efficient, and most importantly, secure. Please contact us today to make sure you’re following the best precautions against carbon monoxide leaks.
