What Are the Red Flags of a Carbon Monoxide Leak?
Carbon monoxide (CO) is referred to as the “silent killer” for a reason. It’s colorless, scentless and tough to recognize without the right tools. If it builds up in your home, it can quickly become a serious threat for you and your family. So, how do you protect yourself against something you can’t see, smell or taste?
The key is to install carbon monoxide detectors. These safety devices are the 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 clues to be aware of.
1. Condensation on Windows Nearby Appliances
If you spot heavy condensation on your windows, namely near a combustion-based system like a gas fireplace, this could suggest that there’s an issue with ventilation. While humidity or condensation itself doesn’t always mean CO, this clue should be checked out.
2. Yellow or Brown Stains
Combustion-based appliances should have clear exhaust. If you see brownish-yellow or soot-like stains around a heater or gas fireplace, it could mean something’s wrong with the combustion process. This can be a sign of a carbon monoxide risk.
3. Exhaust Fumes Are Inside
If you start to notice exhaust indoors, you are in danger of carbon monoxide symptoms. Gas-burning items like cars, charcoal grills and generators should exclusively be operated outside to avoid the buildup of exhaust fumes indoors.
4. Soot in or Around a Natural Gas-Burning Fireplace
Your fireplace should vent smoke and other gases up through and out the chimney. Noticing more soot or grime is a warning sign, especially if there’s an unusual amount. A blocked chimney vent could be why carbon monoxide is backdrafting into your home.
5. Increasingly Weak or No Draft in the Chimney
Speaking 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, the chimney might be blocked, pushing carbon monoxide right back indoors.
6. Yellow or Inconsistent Flames
Gas-powered appliances should have a clear blue flame. If the flame is yellow or flickering (and it’s not a decorative gas fireplace), it can mean the gas has combustion issues and could be emitting carbon monoxide.
7. Solid Fuel Fires Aren’t Burning as Fast
When your wood- or coal-fired stove starts burning slower than usual or has trouble maintaining a flame, it could be dealing with a venting problem, raising the risk of CO buildup.
Common Health Symptoms of CO Poisoning
If you don’t catch the other signs of a carbon monoxide leak in time, the next warning could come from your health. 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 home starts getting sick, especially together with any of the above signs, move outdoors immediately and contact emergency services.
Prevention and 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 require them close to any bedrooms, on each floor of your home and in rooms with gas-powered equipment. For added security, it’s wise to use interconnected detectors so that as soon as one goes off, all of them will raise the alarm. Test these detectors monthly and change them when required, generally every five to seven years.
Along with using carbon monoxide detectors, follow these safety tips:
- Schedule a certified technician to regularly inspect your heating system, gas or wood fireplace, and all other fuel-burning appliances.
- Never use grills, backup generators or similar equipment indoors or in enclosed spaces.
- Use your stove vent if you’re cooking with a gas-fired oven or stove, and avoid using these appliances to try and heat your home.
Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing Goes Above and Beyond to Help Ensure You and Your Family’s Safety
At Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing, we understand the risks of carbon monoxide exposure. That’s why our team offers 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.
