What Are the Signs of a Carbon Monoxide Leak?
Carbon monoxide (CO) is called the “silent killer” for a reason. It’s invisible, scentless and difficult to recognize without proper tools. If it accumulates in your home, it can swiftly pose a danger for you and your family. So, how do you stay safe against something you can’t find with your senses?
The key is to install carbon monoxide detectors. These safety devices are your first 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 signs to be aware of.
1. Condensation on Windows Near Appliances
If you notice lots of condensation on your windows, namely near a fuel-burning appliance like a gas fireplace, this could indicate that ventilation isn’t working properly. While condensation alone isn’t always CO-related, this clue should be checked out.
2. Brown, Sooty Stains
Combustion-based appliances should have unobstructed ventilation. If you see brownish-yellow or soot-like stains around a heater or gas fireplace, there may be combustion issues. This can signal a carbon monoxide issue.
3. Exhaust Fumes Are Inside
If you start to smell exhaust fumes inside the house, you are in danger of carbon monoxide leaks. Gas-burning items like cars, charcoal grills and generators should always be used outdoors to prevent an accumulation of exhaust fumes indoors.
4. Soot in or Around Your Fireplace
Your fireplace should vent smoke and other gases through the chimney. Finding soot inside or around the fireplace is cause for concern, especially if there’s an unusual amount. A clogged chimney could be the reason carbon monoxide is backdrafting indoors.
5. Weak or No Draft in Your Chimney
On the topic of chimneys, a properly working one should have the steady pull to fully remove smoke and other fumes. If you find a weak draft or even no draft at all, your chimney might be clogged, forcing carbon monoxide back into your home.
6. Discolored or Inconsistent Flames
All appliances that use gas should have a distinct blue flame. When the flame is weaker and yellow (and it’s not a decorative gas fireplace), it can mean the gas is burning inefficiently and may be releasing carbon monoxide.
7. Solid Fuel Fires Burn More Slowly
When your wood or coal stove begins 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 miss the first red flags of a carbon monoxide leak in time, the next one may soon come from your health and well-being. 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 family starts getting sick, especially combined with any of the warning signs listed above, leave the house right away for fresh air before you dial 911.
Preventing CO Leaks and Top Safety Tips
It’s always better to prevent issues than respond to them, especially when it comes to carbon monoxide. To start, ensure you’ve installed carbon monoxide detectors in all the right places. Building codes require them in hallways near all bedrooms, on each level of your home and in rooms with appliances like a gas stove or water heater. For an additional safety measure, it’s smart to install interconnected detectors so that whenever one detects CO, all of them will alarm you as well. Test these detectors monthly and replace them as needed, about every five to seven years.
Along with having enough carbon monoxide detectors, don’t forget these other tips:
- Work with local Experts to regularly inspect your heating system, fireplace and all other fuel-burning appliances.
- Never use grills, portable generators or similar equipment inside the house or garage.
- Turn on the range hood 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 Ensure You and Your Family’s Safety
At Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing, we recognize the risks of carbon monoxide poisoning. That’s why our team delivers the best possible service for your heating and ventilation needs. We’ll do our best to keep your home comfortable, cost-efficient, and most importantly, safe. Please contact us today to make sure you’re following the best precautions against carbon monoxide leaks.
