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, scentless and difficult to detect without the right tools. If it collects in your home, it can quickly become a serious hazard for you and your family. So, how do you guard against something you can’t really notice naturally?
The key is to have carbon monoxide detectors. These safety devices are your first line of defense, warning you about the presence of CO gas before the situation becomes life-threatening. But besides a detector going off, how can you know if there’s a carbon monoxide leak in your home? Here are 10 warning signs to watch out for.
1. Condensation on Windows Closest to Appliances
If you notice lots of condensation on your windows, particularly near a gas-powered device like a gas fireplace, this could suggest that something isn’t venting correctly. While humidity or condensation itself doesn’t always mean CO, this still should be checked out.
2. Brown, Sooty Stains
Appliances that run on combusting fuel should have clear exhaust. If you see brownish-yellow or dark stains around a heating system, fireplace or boiler, 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 inside the house, you are in danger of carbon monoxide symptoms. Devices that burn fuel like cars, charcoal grills and generators should exclusively be operated outside to avoid the buildup of exhaust fumes indoors.
4. Soot in or Around the Fireplace
Your chimney should channel smoke and other gases up through and out the chimney. Noticing more soot or grime is a warning sign, especially if there’s excessive amounts. A clogged chimney could be why carbon monoxide is leaking back indoors.
5. Weaker or No Draft from Your Chimney
On the topic of chimneys, a properly working one needs the solid updrafts to fully remove smoke and other fumes. If you notice a weak draft or even no draft at all, your chimney might be obstructed, forcing carbon monoxide back into your home.
6. Yellow or Weak Flames
All appliances that use gas should produce a steady blue flame. When the flame is weak and yellow (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- or coal-fired stove starts struggling to burn all the way through or has trouble even staying on, it could be dealing with a ventilation issue, heightening the possibility of CO buildup.
Signs You May Have CO Poisoning
If you fail to notice the first red flags of a carbon monoxide leak in time, the next warning may soon come from your health and well-being. 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 alongside any of the warning signs listed above, get fresh air immediately and call 911.
Preventing CO Leaks and Top Safety Tips
Taking all the proper precautions is key, especially regarding carbon monoxide. To start, check that there are carbon monoxide detectors in all the right places. Building codes mandate them close to any bedrooms, on each floor of the house and in rooms with appliances like a gas stove or water heater. For added security, it’s best to install interconnected detectors so that as soon as one goes off, all of them will alarm you as well. Check your alarms monthly and change them when required, usually every five to seven years.
Along with having enough carbon monoxide detectors, follow these safety tips:
- Schedule a certified technician to regularly inspect your heating system, fireplace and any other fuel-burning appliances.
- Don’t allow anyone to use grills, portable backup generators or similar equipment inside, especially in small spaces.
- Run the kitchen exhaust fan whenever you’re cooking with a gas-powered oven, and never use these appliances as a heat source.
Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing Can Help Protect Your Home and Family
At Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing, we know the dangers of carbon monoxide gas. That’s why our team delivers the best possible service for your heating and ventilation needs. We’ll keep your home cozy, cost-efficient, and most importantly, safe and secure. Please contact us today to make sure you’re following the best precautions against carbon monoxide leaks.
