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 difficult to notice without proper tools. If it builds up in your home, it can rapidly turn into a serious threat for you and your family. So, how do you stay safe against something you can’t see, smell or taste?
The key is to use carbon monoxide detectors. These safety devices are the initial line of defense, notifying you of the presence of CO gas before the situation becomes life-threatening. But besides a detector going off, how can you recognize if there’s a carbon monoxide leak in your home? Below are 10 warning signs to watch out for.
1. Condensation on Windows Nearby Appliances
If you spot lots of condensation on your windows, particularly near a fuel-burning appliance like a gas fireplace, this could suggest that something isn’t venting correctly. While condensation by itself may not mean CO, this still should be checked out.
2. Yellow or Brown Stains
Appliances that run on combusting fuel should have unobstructed ventilation. If you notice brownish-yellow or soot-like stains around a heater or gas fireplace, there may be combustion issues. This can be a sign of a carbon monoxide risk.
3. Exhaust Fumes Indoors
If you start to notice exhaust indoors, you are in danger of carbon monoxide exposure. Devices that burn fuel 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 and out the chimney. Finding soot inside or around the fireplace is cause for concern, especially if there’s more than usual. An obstructed flue in the chimney could be the culprit for why carbon monoxide is backdrafting into your home.
5. Weaker or No Draft in Your Chimney
On the topic of chimneys, a properly working one needs the solid updrafts to fully ventilate smoke and other fumes. If you find a weak draft or even no draft at all, the chimney could be obstructed, sending carbon monoxide back into your home.
6. Yellow or Inconsistent Flames
Gas-powered appliances should produce a clear blue flame. Whenever the flame is weaker and yellow (and you don’t have a decorative gas fireplace), it means the gas isn’t burning properly and may be releasing carbon monoxide.
7. Solid Fuel Fires Aren’t Burning as Fast
In situations where your wood- or coal-fired stove is burning slower than usual or has trouble staying lit, it could have a problem with airflow, raising the risk of CO buildup.
Symptoms of CO Poisoning
If you miss the other signs of a carbon monoxide leak in time, the next warning may soon 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 starts getting sick, especially alongside any of the previously mentioned clues, move outdoors immediately and contact emergency services.
Prevent CO Poisoning and Gas Leaks with These Safety Tips
Taking all the proper precautions is key, especially regarding carbon monoxide. For the most basic safety, 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 appliances like a gas stove or water heater. For an additional safety measure, it’s wise to install interconnected detectors so that whenever one detects CO, all of them will raise the alarm. Check your alarms monthly and change them when required, generally every five to seven years.
Along with having enough 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.
- Don’t allow anyone to use grills, portable backup generators or similar equipment inside the house or garage.
- Turn on the range hood if you’re cooking with a gas stove, and never use these appliances for home heating.
Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing Will Help Keep Your Household Safe
At Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing, we know the health and safety risks of carbon monoxide poisoning. That’s why our team offers the best possible service for your heating and ventilation needs. We’ll keep your home comfortable, cost-efficient, and most importantly, safe and secure. Please contact us today to ensure you’re taking the necessary measures against carbon monoxide leaks.
