What Are the Signs of a Carbon Monoxide Leak?
Carbon monoxide (CO) is called the “silent killer” for a reason. It’s colorless, odorless and tough to detect without proper tools. If it builds up in your home, it can quickly become a danger for you and your family. So, how do you stay safe against something you can’t really notice naturally?
The key is to use carbon monoxide detectors. These small alarm systems are the initial line of defense, notifying you of the presence of CO gas before the situation gets dangerous. But besides a detector going off, how can you know if there’s a carbon monoxide leak in your home? Below are 10 warning signs to watch out for.
1. Condensation on Windows Near Appliances
If you spot heavy condensation on your windows, namely near a combustion-based system like a gas fireplace, this could indicate that something isn’t venting correctly. While condensation alone isn’t always CO-related, this clue deserves a closer look.
2. Brown, Sooty Stains
Combustion-based appliances should always have clean, clear exhaust. If you see brownish-yellow or sooty stains around a heating system, fireplace or boiler, combustion isn’t happening as it should. This may point to a carbon monoxide risk.
3. Exhaust Fumes Are Inside
If you can notice exhaust indoors, you are at risk of carbon monoxide leaks. Gas-burning items like cars, charcoal grills and generators should only be used safely outside the home to prevent an accumulation of exhaust fumes indoors.
4. Soot in or Around a Natural Gas-Burning Fireplace
Your fireplace vent should remove smoke and other gases up and out the chimney. Seeing soot buildup around your fireplace is a red flag, especially if there’s an unusual amount. A clogged chimney could be the reason carbon monoxide is coming back into your home.
5. Increasingly Weak or No Draft in the Chimney
Staying on the topic of chimneys, a properly working one needs the strong airflow to fully pull out smoke and other fumes. If you notice a weak draft or even no draft at all, the chimney may be obstructed, forcing carbon monoxide right back indoors.
6. Discolored or Flickering Flames
Gas-powered appliances should have a steady blue flame. When the flame is yellow or flickering (and it isn’t a decorative gas fireplace), it means the gas is burning inefficiently and could be emitting carbon monoxide.
7. Solid Fuel Fires Aren’t Burning as Fast
In situations where your wood-burning stove begins struggling to burn all the way through or has trouble maintaining a flame, it could be dealing with a problem with airflow, heightening the possibility of CO buildup.
Signs You May Have CO Poisoning
If you miss the other signs of a carbon monoxide leak in time, the next one could come from your body. 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 household experiences these symptoms, especially together with any of the previously mentioned clues, leave the house right away for fresh air before you dial 911.
Prevention and Safety Tips
Taking all the proper precautions is key, especially regarding carbon monoxide. First, ensure you’ve installed carbon monoxide detectors in all the right places. Building codes mandate them outside every bedroom, on each floor of your home and in rooms with fuel-burning appliances. For extra safety, it’s best to install interconnected detectors so that when one detects carbon monoxide, all of them will raise the alarm. Test these detectors monthly and swap them out when necessary, usually every five to seven years.
Along with installing and maintaining carbon monoxide detectors, don’t forget these other tips:
- Schedule a certified technician to regularly inspect your heating system, gas or wood fireplace, and all other fuel-burning appliances.
- Don’t allow anyone to use grills, portable backup generators or similar equipment inside the house or garage.
- Run the kitchen exhaust fan if you’re cooking with a gas-fired oven or stove, and never use these appliances for home heating.
Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing Can Help Protect Your Home and Family
At Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing, we know the health and safety risks of carbon monoxide gas. That’s why our team delivers reliable and effective services for your heating and ventilation needs. We’ll keep your home cozy, cost-efficient, and most importantly, secure. Please contact us today to ensure you’re taking the necessary measures against carbon monoxide leaks.
