What Are the Red Flags of a Carbon Monoxide Gas Leak?
Carbon monoxide (CO) is known as the “silent killer” for a reason. It’s invisible, scentless and difficult to recognize without the right tools. If it collects in your home, it can quickly become a danger 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 your first line of defense, alerting you to the presence of CO gas before the situation gets dangerous. But other than a detector going off, how can you know if there’s a carbon monoxide leak in your home? These are 10 signs to be aware of.
1. Condensation on Windows Near Appliances
If you notice heavy condensation on your windows, especially near a fuel-burning appliance 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. Brown, Sooty Stains
Fuel-powered appliances should have unobstructed ventilation. If you notice brownish-yellow or sooty stains around a heater or gas fireplace, it could mean something’s wrong with the combustion process. This can signal a carbon monoxide issue.
3. Exhaust Fumes Indoors
If you start to smell or see exhaust fumes inside the house, you are at risk of carbon monoxide exposure. Devices that burn fuel like cars, charcoal grills and generators should only be operated outside to avoid the buildup of exhaust fumes indoors.
4. Soot in or Around a Natural Gas-Burning Fireplace
Your fireplace vent should remove smoke and other gases up and out the chimney. Finding soot inside or around the fireplace is a warning sign, especially if there’s excessive amounts. An obstructed flue in the chimney could be why carbon monoxide is backdrafting into your home.
5. Weak or No Draft in Your Chimney
Speaking of chimneys, a properly working one needs the strong airflow to fully pull out smoke and other fumes. If you notice weak airflow or even no draft at all, your chimney may be obstructed, pushing carbon monoxide back into your home.
6. Yellow or Weak Flames
Gas-powered appliances should have a clear blue flame. Whenever the flame is weak and yellow (and it isn’t a decorative gas fireplace), it means the gas is burning inefficiently and could be producing carbon monoxide.
7. Solid Fuel Fires Burning Slowly
When your wood-burning stove is struggling to burn all the way through or has trouble staying lit, it could have a venting problem, heightening the possibility of CO buildup.
Symptoms of CO Poisoning
If you fail to notice the initial warning signs of a carbon monoxide leak in time, the next clue could 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 household experiences these symptoms, especially alongside any of the previously mentioned clues, move outdoors immediately and contact emergency services.
Prevent CO Poisoning and Gas Leaks with These Safety Tips
Prevention is always better than a cure, especially when it comes to carbon monoxide. First, ensure you’ve installed carbon monoxide detectors in all the right places. Building codes require them close to any bedrooms, on each level of the house and in rooms with gas-powered equipment. For added security, it’s best to install interconnected detectors so that whenever one detects carbon monoxide, all of them will raise the alarm. Check your alarms monthly and change them when required, about every five to seven years.
In addition to using carbon monoxide detectors, don’t forget these other tips:
- Schedule a certified technician to regularly inspect your heating system, fireplace and any other fuel-burning appliances.
- Avoid using grills, portable generators or similar equipment indoors or in enclosed spaces.
- Turn on the range hood when cooking with a gas-powered oven, and never use these appliances to try and heat your home.
Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing Can Help Keep Your Household Safe
At Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing, we recognize the dangers of carbon monoxide gas. That’s why our team provides 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 ensure you’re taking the necessary measures against carbon monoxide leaks.
