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 detect without proper tools. If it collects 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 alarms are the first line of defense, alerting you to the presence of CO gas before the situation becomes life-threatening. But besides a detector going off, how can you tell if there’s a carbon monoxide leak in your home? Here are 10 signs to watch out for.
1. Condensation on Windows Closest to Appliances
If you spot heavy condensation on your windows, namely near a gas-powered device like a gas fireplace, this could suggest that ventilation isn’t working properly. While condensation by itself may not mean CO, this still deserves a closer look.
2. Brown, Sooty Stains
Fuel-powered appliances should have clear exhaust. If you notice brownish-yellow or dark stains around a heater or gas fireplace, it could mean something’s wrong with the combustion process. This can signal a carbon monoxide risk.
3. Exhaust Fumes Indoors
If you start to notice exhaust indoors, you are in danger of carbon monoxide leaks. Fuel-burning appliances like cars, charcoal grills and generators should exclusively be used safely outside the home to reduce the risk of exhaust fumes indoors.
4. Soot in or Around the Fireplace
Your fireplace vent should remove smoke and other gases up through and out the chimney. Finding soot inside or around the fireplace is a warning sign, especially if there’s excessive amounts. A blocked chimney vent could be the culprit for why carbon monoxide is coming back indoors.
5. Weaker or No Draft from Your Chimney
Speaking of chimneys, a properly working one should have the solid updrafts to fully pull out smoke and other fumes. If you notice a weak draft or even no draft at all, the chimney may be obstructed, pushing carbon monoxide backward.
6. Discolored or Inconsistent Flames
Most gas-burning appliances should have a clear blue flame. When the flame is weak and yellow (and it’s not a decorative gas fireplace), it means the gas has combustion issues and may be releasing carbon monoxide.
7. Solid Fuel Fires Burn More Slowly
If your wood-burning stove begins taking longer to burn or has trouble staying lit, it could be dealing with a venting problem, heightening the possibility 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 clue may soon come from your health and well-being. 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 starts getting sick, especially alongside any of the previously mentioned clues, leave the house right away for fresh air before you dial 911.
Prevent CO Poisoning and Gas Leaks with These Safety Tips
Prevention is always better than a cure, especially regarding carbon monoxide. For the most basic safety, check that there are carbon monoxide detectors in all the right places. Building codes require them in hallways near all bedrooms, on each level of the house and in rooms with fuel-burning appliances. For added security, it’s best to set up interconnected detectors so that if one detects carbon monoxide, all of them will raise the alarm. Test these detectors monthly and swap them out when necessary, about every five to seven years.
Besides having enough carbon monoxide detectors, don’t forget these other tips:
- Hire a professional to regularly inspect your heating system, fireplace and all other fuel-burning appliances.
- Don’t allow anyone to use grills, portable backup generators or similar equipment inside the house or garage.
- Run the kitchen exhaust fan whenever you’re cooking with a gas stove, and never use these appliances as a heat source.
Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing Goes Above and Beyond to Help Keep Your Household Safe
At Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing, we know the health and safety risks of carbon monoxide exposure. That’s why our team provides fast, long-lasting solutions for your heating and ventilation needs. Our goal is to keep your home cozy, cost-efficient, and most importantly, safe. Please contact us today to make sure you’re following the necessary measures against carbon monoxide leaks.
