What Are the Red Flags of a Carbon Monoxide Gas Leak?
Carbon monoxide (CO) is referred to as the “silent killer” for a reason. It’s clear, scentless and hard to notice without proper tools. If it collects in your home, it can quickly become a serious hazard for you and your family. So, how do you stay safe against something you can’t really notice naturally?
The key is to have carbon monoxide detectors. These safety devices are your first line of defense, warning you about the presence of CO gas before the situation gets dangerous. But other than a detector going off, how can you recognize if there’s a carbon monoxide leak in your home? Here are 10 clues to keep an eye on.
1. Condensation on Windows Near Appliances
If you notice heavy condensation on your windows, especially near a combustion-based system like a gas fireplace, this could indicate that something isn’t venting correctly. While humidity or condensation itself doesn’t always mean CO, this clue warrants investigation.
2. Discoloration or Soot-Like Stains
Fuel-powered appliances should have unobstructed ventilation. If you see brownish-yellow or dark stains around a heating system, fireplace or boiler, it could mean something’s wrong with the combustion process. This may point to a carbon monoxide leak.
3. Exhaust Fumes Are in the House
If you start to smell or see exhaust fumes indoors, you are in danger of carbon monoxide symptoms. Gas-burning items like cars, charcoal grills and generators should exclusively be used outdoors to avoid the buildup of exhaust fumes indoors.
4. Soot in or Around Your Fireplace
Your chimney should channel smoke and other gases up through and out the chimney. Noticing more soot or grime is a red flag, especially if there’s excessive amounts. An obstructed flue in the chimney could be the culprit for why carbon monoxide is backdrafting indoors.
5. Weak or No Draft from the Chimney
On the topic of chimneys, a properly working one needs the strong airflow to fully remove smoke and other fumes. If you find a weak draft or even no draft at all, the chimney could be obstructed, forcing carbon monoxide backward.
6. Yellowish or Flickering Flames
Most gas-burning appliances should produce a clear blue flame. If the flame is weaker and yellow (and it isn’t a decorative gas fireplace), it means the gas has combustion issues and could be producing carbon monoxide.
7. Solid Fuel Fires Aren’t Burning as Fast
In situations where your wood or coal stove begins struggling to burn all the way through or has trouble staying lit, it could have a problem with airflow, heightening the possibility of CO buildup.
Symptoms of CO Poisoning
If you fail to notice the other signs of a carbon monoxide leak in time, the next warning could come from your health. 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 household suddenly feels sick, 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 CO gas exposure. For the most basic safety, ensure you’ve installed carbon monoxide detectors in all the right 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 set up interconnected detectors so that whenever one goes off, all of them will sound. Test these detectors monthly and replace them as needed, approximately every five to seven years.
In addition to using carbon monoxide detectors, don’t forget these other tips:
- Work with local Experts to regularly inspect your heating system, fireplace and any other fuel-burning appliances.
- Never use grills, backup generators or similar equipment inside the house or garage.
- Turn on the range hood when cooking with a gas-fired oven or stove, and avoid using these appliances as a heat source.
Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing Will Help Ensure You and Your Family’s Safety
At Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing, we know the dangers of carbon monoxide gas. That’s why our team provides reliable and effective services for your heating and ventilation needs. Our goal is to keep your home comfortable, cost-effective, and most importantly, secure. Please contact us today to ensure you’re taking the best precautions against carbon monoxide leaks.
