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 notice without proper tools. If it builds up in your home, it can swiftly pose a danger for you and your family. So, how do you guard against something you can’t see, smell or taste?
The key is to have carbon monoxide detectors. These safety devices are the first line of defense, warning you about the presence of CO gas before the situation reaches dangerous levels. But other than 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 see heavy condensation on your windows, particularly near a gas-powered device like a gas fireplace, this could mean that something isn’t venting correctly. While condensation by itself may not mean CO, this still warrants investigation.
2. Brown, Sooty Stains
Combustion-based appliances should always have unobstructed ventilation. If you find brownish-yellow or dark stains around a heating system, fireplace or boiler, there may be combustion issues. This may point to a carbon monoxide issue.
3. Exhaust Fumes Appear Indoors
If you start to smell exhaust fumes indoors, you are at risk of carbon monoxide exposure. Devices that burn fuel like cars, charcoal grills and generators should always 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 up and out the chimney. Noticing more soot or grime is a warning sign, especially if there’s more than usual. A blocked chimney vent could be why carbon monoxide is backdrafting into your home.
5. Weaker or No Draft in Your Chimney
Staying on the topic of chimneys, a properly working one should have the solid updrafts to fully ventilate smoke and other fumes. If you notice weak airflow or even no draft at all, your chimney could be clogged, pushing carbon monoxide backward.
6. Yellow or Inconsistent Flames
Gas-powered appliances should have a distinct blue flame. If the flame is weaker and yellow (and you don’t have a decorative gas fireplace), it means the gas is burning inefficiently and may be producing carbon monoxide.
7. Solid Fuel Fires Burning Slowly
If your wood-burning stove starts burning slower than usual or has trouble even staying on, it could be dealing with a problem with airflow, raising the risk of CO buildup.
Common Health Symptoms of CO Poisoning
If you miss the other signs of a carbon monoxide leak in time, the next clue may soon come from your body. 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 home suddenly feels sick, especially alongside any of the above signs, move outdoors immediately and contact emergency services.
Preventing CO Leaks and Top Safety Tips
Prevention is always better than a cure, especially when it comes to CO gas exposure. To start, make sure you have carbon monoxide detectors in all the right places. Building codes mandate them in hallways near all bedrooms, on each floor of the house and in rooms with appliances like a gas stove or water heater. For extra safety, it’s smart to use interconnected detectors so that when one detects carbon monoxide, all of them will raise the alarm. Test these detectors monthly and change them when required, about every five to seven years.
Along with using carbon monoxide detectors, don’t forget these other tips:
- Hire a professional to regularly inspect your heating system, fireplace and all other fuel-burning appliances.
- Never 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-powered oven, and never use these appliances for home heating.
Broad Ripple Service Experts Will Help Keep Your Household Safe
At Broad Ripple Service Experts, we recognize the health and safety risks of carbon monoxide gas leaks. That’s why our team delivers fast, long-lasting solutions for your heating and ventilation needs. Our goal is to keep your home comfortable, cost-effective, and most importantly, safe and secure. Please contact us today to confirm you have the necessary measures against carbon monoxide leaks.
