What Are the Signs of a Carbon Monoxide Gas Leak?
Carbon monoxide (CO) is called the “silent killer” for a reason. It’s clear, scentless and hard to detect without proper tools. If it builds up in your home, it can swiftly pose a serious hazard for you and your family. So, how do you stay safe against something you can’t find with your senses?
The key is to have carbon monoxide detectors. These safety devices are the first 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 know if there’s a carbon monoxide leak in your home? Here are 10 warning signs to watch out for.
1. Condensation on Windows Nearby Appliances
If you see heavy condensation on your windows, namely near a gas-powered device like a gas fireplace, this could mean that ventilation isn’t working properly. While humidity or condensation itself doesn’t always mean CO, this clue deserves a closer look.
2. Yellow or Brown Stains
Fuel-powered appliances should have unobstructed ventilation. If you find brownish-yellow or dark stains around a heating system, fireplace or boiler, combustion isn’t happening as it should. This can signal a carbon monoxide risk.
3. Exhaust Fumes Indoors
If you can smell exhaust fumes indoors, you are at risk of carbon monoxide leaks. Devices that burn fuel like cars, charcoal grills and generators should always be used outdoors to reduce the risk of exhaust fumes indoors.
4. Soot in or Around a Gas Fireplace
Your fireplace vent should remove smoke and other gases through the chimney. Seeing soot buildup around your fireplace is cause for concern, especially if there’s excessive amounts. An obstructed flue in the chimney could be why carbon monoxide is coming back indoors.
5. Weaker or No Draft in the Chimney
On the topic of chimneys, a properly working one should have the steady pull to fully pull out smoke and other fumes. If you notice reduced ventilation or even no draft at all, your chimney might be clogged, forcing carbon monoxide backward.
6. Discolored or Flickering Flames
Most gas-burning appliances should produce a clear blue flame. When the flame is yellow or flickering (and you don’t have a decorative gas fireplace), it means the gas is burning inefficiently and might be emitting carbon monoxide.
7. Solid Fuel Fires Burn More Slowly
When your wood-burning stove starts burning slower than usual or has trouble staying lit, it could have a ventilation issue, increasing the risk of CO buildup.
Signs You May Have CO Poisoning
If you fail to notice the initial warning 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 family experiences these symptoms, especially combined with any of the warning signs listed above, get fresh air immediately and call 911.
Preventing CO Leaks and Top Safety Tips
Prevention is always better than a cure, especially regarding carbon monoxide. First, make sure you have 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 gas-powered equipment. For extra safety, it’s best to set up interconnected detectors so that when one detects carbon monoxide, all of them will sound. Perform monthly testing and swap them out when necessary, approximately 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.
- Avoid using grills, portable backup generators or similar equipment inside, especially in small spaces.
- Turn on the range hood when cooking with a gas-fired oven or stove, 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 recognize the dangers of carbon monoxide gas leaks. 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, secure. Please contact us today to confirm you have the necessary measures against carbon monoxide leaks.
