What Are the Signs of a Carbon Monoxide Leak?
Carbon monoxide (CO) is called the “silent killer” for a reason. It’s clear, scentless and difficult to recognize without proper tools. If it accumulates in your home, it can quickly become a serious threat for you and your family. So, how do you guard against something you can’t see, smell or taste?
The key is to use carbon monoxide detectors. These small alarm systems are your initial line of defense, alerting you to the presence of CO gas before the situation reaches dangerous levels. But besides a detector going off, how can you tell if there’s a carbon monoxide leak in your home? These are 10 clues to keep an eye on.
1. Condensation on Windows Near Appliances
If you notice lots of condensation on your windows, especially near a combustion-based system like a gas fireplace, this could mean that there’s an issue with ventilation. While condensation by itself may not mean CO, this still deserves a closer look.
2. Brown, Sooty Stains
Fuel-powered appliances should always have clear exhaust. If you find brownish-yellow or dark stains around a furnace, fireplace or water heater, there may be combustion issues. This can be a sign of a carbon monoxide risk.
3. Exhaust Fumes Are in the House
If you can notice exhaust indoors, you are at risk of carbon monoxide exposure. Devices that burn fuel like cars, charcoal grills and generators should exclusively be used safely outside the home to avoid the buildup of exhaust fumes indoors.
4. Soot in or Around the Fireplace
Your chimney should channel smoke and other gases through the chimney. Seeing soot buildup around your fireplace is cause for concern, especially if there’s an unusual amount. An obstructed flue in the chimney could be the culprit for why carbon monoxide is leaking back into your home.
5. Weak or No Draft from the Chimney
Speaking of chimneys, a properly working one should have the solid updrafts to fully remove smoke and other fumes. If you find a weak draft or even no draft at all, the chimney might be obstructed, pushing carbon monoxide back into your home.
6. Yellowish or Inconsistent Flames
All appliances that use gas should have a steady blue flame. Whenever the flame is yellow or flickering (and it’s not a decorative gas fireplace), it means the gas is burning inefficiently and may be emitting carbon monoxide.
7. Solid Fuel Fires Burn More Slowly
If your wood-burning stove starts burning slower than usual or has trouble staying lit, it could have 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 clue might come from your health. Symptoms of CO poisoning may involve:
- Flu-like symptoms
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Shortness of breath
- Confusion
- And fatigue
If you or anyone in your family suddenly feels sick, especially together with any of the previously mentioned clues, get fresh air immediately and call 911.
Prevention and Safety Tips
Prevention is always better than a cure, especially regarding carbon monoxide. To start, make sure you have carbon monoxide detectors in all the right places. Building codes mandate them close to any bedrooms, on each level of the house and in rooms with fuel-burning appliances. For an additional safety measure, it’s wise to install interconnected detectors so that as soon as one detects carbon monoxide, all of them will raise the alarm. Perform monthly testing and change them when required, about every five to seven years.
Besides having enough carbon monoxide detectors, don’t forget these other tips:
- Schedule a certified technician 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 the house or garage.
- Turn on the range hood whenever you’re cooking with a gas-powered oven, and never use these appliances for home heating.
Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing Will Help Ensure You and Your Family’s Safety
At Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing, we know the risks of carbon monoxide exposure. That’s why our team delivers reliable and effective services for your heating and ventilation needs. We’ll keep your home cozy, cost-effective, and most importantly, safe. Please contact us today to make sure you’re following the necessary measures against carbon monoxide leaks.
