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 invisible, odorless and difficult to recognize without the right tools. If it accumulates in your home, it can quickly become a serious hazard for you and your family. So, how do you guard against something you can’t see, smell or taste?
The key is to use carbon monoxide detectors. These small alarm systems are the first line of defense, warning you about the presence of CO gas before the situation becomes life-threatening. But aside from a detector going off, how can you recognize if there’s a carbon monoxide leak in your home? These are 10 clues to be aware of.
1. Condensation on Windows Closest to Appliances
If you notice heavy condensation on your windows, especially near a gas-powered device like a gas fireplace, this could mean that something isn’t venting correctly. While condensation alone isn’t always CO-related, this still should be checked out.
2. Yellow or Brown Stains
Appliances that run on combusting fuel should always have unobstructed ventilation. If you see brownish-yellow or sooty stains around a heater or gas fireplace, combustion isn’t happening as it should. This can signal a carbon monoxide issue.
3. Exhaust Fumes Indoors
If you can notice exhaust indoors, you are in danger of carbon monoxide leaks. Gas-burning items like cars, charcoal grills and generators should always be used outdoors to prevent an accumulation of exhaust fumes indoors.
4. Soot in or Around a Gas Fireplace
Your fireplace vent should remove smoke and other gases up through and out the chimney. Noticing more soot or grime is a red flag, especially if there’s more than usual. A blocked chimney vent could be the culprit for why carbon monoxide is leaking back indoors.
5. Weak or No Draft in the Chimney
Staying on the topic of chimneys, a properly working one should have the steady pull to fully remove smoke and other fumes. If you detect weak airflow or even no draft at all, the chimney might be clogged, pushing carbon monoxide right back indoors.
6. Yellowish or Weak Flames
All appliances that use gas should have a clear blue flame. When 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 releasing carbon monoxide.
7. Solid Fuel Fires Aren’t Burning as Fast
If your wood-burning stove starts taking longer to burn or has trouble maintaining a flame, it could have a ventilation issue, increasing the risk of CO buildup.
Signs You May Have CO Poisoning
If you fail to notice the first red flags of a carbon monoxide leak in time, the next clue may soon 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 family suddenly feels sick, especially alongside any of the previously mentioned clues, move outdoors immediately and contact emergency services.
Preventing CO Leaks and Top Safety Tips
Taking all the proper precautions is key, especially when it comes to carbon monoxide. To start, make sure you have carbon monoxide detectors in all the right places. Building codes mandate them close to any bedrooms, on each level of the house and in rooms with fuel-burning appliances. For extra safety, it’s wise to use interconnected detectors so that whenever one goes off, all of them will sound. Test these detectors monthly and change them when required, about 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, gas or wood fireplace, and all other fuel-burning appliances.
- Avoid using grills, backup generators or similar equipment inside the house or garage.
- Turn on the range hood when cooking with a gas stove, and avoid using these appliances for home heating.
Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing Can Help Ensure You and Your Family’s Safety
At Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing, we know the risks of carbon monoxide gas leaks. 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-effective, and most importantly, safe and secure. Please contact us today to make sure you’re following the proper precautions against carbon monoxide leaks.
