What Are the Signs of a Carbon Monoxide Gas Leak?
Carbon monoxide (CO) is referred to as the “silent killer” for a reason. It’s colorless, odorless and hard to notice without proper tools. If it accumulates in your home, it can rapidly turn into a danger for you and your family. So, how do you guard against something you can’t find with your senses?
The key is to use carbon monoxide detectors. These safety devices are your 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? These are 10 clues to keep an eye on.
1. Condensation on Windows Near Appliances
If you notice heavy condensation on your windows, namely 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 clue should be checked out.
2. Brown, Sooty Stains
Combustion-based appliances should always have clean, clear exhaust. If you find brownish-yellow or soot-like stains around a furnace, fireplace or water heater, there may be combustion issues. This may point to a carbon monoxide risk.
3. Exhaust Fumes Are in the House
If you start to smell or see exhaust fumes inside the house, you are at risk of carbon monoxide leaks. Fuel-burning appliances like cars, charcoal grills and generators should always be used outdoors to reduce the risk of exhaust fumes indoors.
4. Soot in or Around Your Fireplace
Your fireplace vent should remove smoke and other gases through the chimney. Seeing soot buildup around your fireplace 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 in Your Chimney
On the topic of chimneys, a properly working one needs the solid updrafts to fully pull out smoke and other fumes. If you find a weak draft or even no draft at all, your chimney may be clogged, forcing carbon monoxide back into your home.
6. Yellow or Inconsistent Flames
Gas-powered appliances should produce a clear blue flame. Whenever the flame is weak and yellow (and you don’t have a decorative gas fireplace), it can mean the gas isn’t burning properly and could be producing carbon monoxide.
7. Solid Fuel Fires Burn More Slowly
In situations where your wood-burning stove begins struggling to burn all the way through or has trouble staying lit, it could have a venting problem, increasing the risk of CO buildup.
Common Health Symptoms of CO Poisoning
If you fail to notice the other signs of a carbon monoxide leak in time, the next one could come from your health. 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 experiences these symptoms, especially together with any of the warning signs listed above, get fresh air immediately and call 911.
Prevent CO Poisoning and Gas Leaks with These Safety Tips
Prevention is always better than a cure, especially when it comes to carbon monoxide. To start, ensure you’ve installed carbon monoxide detectors in appropriate places. Building codes require them close to any bedrooms, on each level of your home and in rooms with gas-powered equipment. For an additional safety measure, it’s smart to install interconnected detectors so that whenever one detects carbon monoxide, all of them will alarm you as well. Check your alarms monthly and replace them as needed, approximately every five to seven years.
Along with using 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 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 know the health and safety risks of carbon monoxide gas leaks. That’s why our team offers fast, long-lasting solutions for your heating and ventilation needs. We’ll do our best to keep your home cozy, cost-efficient, and most importantly, safe and secure. Please contact us today to make sure you’re following the proper precautions against carbon monoxide leaks.
