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 tough to notice without the right tools. If it collects in your home, it can rapidly turn into a serious threat 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 alarms are your initial line of defense, alerting you to the presence of CO gas before the situation reaches dangerous levels. But other than a detector going off, how can you recognize if there’s a carbon monoxide leak in your home? Below are 10 clues to keep an eye on.
1. Condensation on Windows Near Appliances
If you spot lots of condensation on your windows, namely near a combustion-based system like a gas fireplace, this could mean that something isn’t venting correctly. While condensation alone isn’t always CO-related, this still deserves a closer look.
2. Brown, Sooty Stains
Combustion-based appliances should always have clear exhaust. If you notice brownish-yellow or soot-like stains around a heating system, fireplace or boiler, combustion isn’t happening as it should. This can be a sign of a carbon monoxide leak.
3. Exhaust Fumes Are Inside
If you start to smell exhaust fumes indoors, you are at risk of carbon monoxide exposure. Fuel-burning appliances like cars, charcoal grills and generators should exclusively be used outdoors to prevent an accumulation of exhaust fumes indoors.
4. Soot in or Around a Gas Fireplace
Your fireplace should vent smoke and other gases up and out the chimney. Seeing soot buildup around your fireplace is a warning sign, especially if there’s an unusual amount. An obstructed flue in the chimney could be the culprit for why carbon monoxide is backdrafting indoors.
5. Weaker or No Draft from the Chimney
Staying on the topic of chimneys, a properly working one should have the strong airflow to fully remove smoke and other fumes. If you notice a weak draft or even no draft at all, the chimney could be clogged, sending carbon monoxide right back indoors.
6. Yellow or Inconsistent Flames
Most gas-burning appliances should produce a distinct blue flame. When the flame is weaker and yellow (and it isn’t a decorative gas fireplace), it can mean the gas isn’t burning properly and might be producing carbon monoxide.
7. Solid Fuel Fires Burning Slowly
In situations where your wood or coal stove is taking longer to burn or has trouble staying lit, it could have a problem with airflow, raising the risk of CO buildup.
Signs You May Have CO Poisoning
If you don’t catch the first red flags 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 family experiences these symptoms, especially together with 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 in the case of CO gas exposure. First, ensure you’ve installed carbon monoxide detectors in all the right places. Building codes require them close to any bedrooms, on each floor of the house and in rooms with appliances like a gas stove or water heater. For an additional safety measure, it’s wise to set up interconnected detectors so that as soon as one detects CO, all of them will sound. Test these detectors monthly and change them when required, generally every five to seven years.
Besides using carbon monoxide detectors, keep these safety precautions in mind:
- Schedule a certified technician to regularly inspect your heating system, gas or wood fireplace, and all other fuel-burning appliances.
- Don’t allow anyone to use grills, backup generators or similar equipment indoors or in enclosed spaces.
- 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 risks of carbon monoxide gas leaks. That’s why our team provides the best possible service for your heating and ventilation needs. Our goal is to keep your home comfortable, cost-efficient, and most importantly, secure. Please contact us today to confirm you have the necessary measures against carbon monoxide leaks.
