What Are the Red Flags of a Carbon Monoxide Gas Leak?
Carbon monoxide (CO) is referred to as the “silent killer” for a reason. It’s invisible, odorless and tough to recognize without proper 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 protect yourself against something you can’t see, smell or taste?
The key is to use carbon monoxide detectors. These small alarm systems are the initial line of defense, alerting you to the presence of CO gas before the situation reaches dangerous levels. But aside from a detector going off, how can you recognize if there’s a carbon monoxide leak in your home? These are 10 warning signs to watch out for.
1. Condensation on Windows Nearby Appliances
If you notice lots of condensation on your windows, namely near a combustion-based system like a gas fireplace, this could suggest that something isn’t venting correctly. While condensation by itself may not mean CO, this clue 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 heating system, fireplace or boiler, it could mean something’s wrong with the combustion process. This can be a sign of a carbon monoxide risk.
3. Exhaust Fumes Are in the House
If you can smell or see exhaust fumes indoors, you are at risk of carbon monoxide exposure. Fuel-burning appliances like cars, charcoal grills and generators should exclusively be used outdoors to reduce the risk of exhaust fumes indoors.
4. Soot in or Around the Fireplace
Your fireplace vent should remove smoke and other gases up and out the chimney. Noticing more soot or grime is a red flag, especially if there’s more than usual. An obstructed flue in the chimney could be the reason carbon monoxide is backdrafting indoors.
5. Increasingly Weak or No Draft from the Chimney
Staying on the topic of chimneys, a properly working one should have the solid updrafts to fully pull out smoke and other fumes. If you notice reduced ventilation or even no draft at all, the chimney may be clogged, pushing carbon monoxide right back indoors.
6. Yellow or Flickering Flames
All appliances that use gas should have a clear blue flame. When the flame is yellow or flickering (and it’s not a decorative gas fireplace), it means the gas has combustion issues and could be producing carbon monoxide.
7. Solid Fuel Fires Burning Slowly
If your wood-burning stove starts struggling to burn all the way through or has trouble maintaining a flame, it could be dealing with a venting problem, heightening the possibility of CO buildup.
Signs You May Have CO Poisoning
If you miss the first red flags of a carbon monoxide leak in time, the next one may soon 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 home suddenly feels sick, especially together with any of the previously mentioned clues, get fresh air immediately and call 911.
Preventing CO Leaks and Top Safety Tips
Prevention is always better than a cure, especially when it comes to CO gas exposure. To start, check that there are carbon monoxide detectors in appropriate places. Building codes mandate them close to any bedrooms, on each floor of the house and in rooms with fuel-burning appliances. For added security, it’s best to set up interconnected detectors so that as soon as one detects CO, all of them will alarm you as well. Perform monthly testing and change them when required, approximately every five to seven years.
Along with installing and maintaining carbon monoxide detectors, don’t forget these other tips:
- Work with local Experts to regularly inspect your heating system, gas or wood fireplace, and all other fuel-burning appliances.
- Never use grills, backup generators or similar equipment inside the house or garage.
- Use your stove vent when cooking with a gas-fired oven or stove, and avoid using these appliances as a heat source.
Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing Can Help Keep Your Household Safe
At Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing, we understand the risks of carbon monoxide poisoning. That’s why our team delivers fast, long-lasting solutions for your heating and ventilation needs. We’ll keep your home cozy, cost-effective, and most importantly, secure. Please contact us today to ensure you’re taking the proper precautions against carbon monoxide leaks.
