What Are the Red Flags of a Carbon Monoxide Leak?

Carbon monoxide (CO) is called the “silent killer” for a reason. It’s clear, odorless and difficult to recognize without the right tools. If it builds up in your home, it can swiftly pose a serious hazard for you and your family. So, how do you guard against something you can’t find with your senses?

The key is to have carbon monoxide detectors. These safety devices are your first line of defense, alerting you to the presence of CO gas before the situation becomes life-threatening. But aside from a detector going off, how can you tell if there’s a carbon monoxide leak in your home? Here are 10 warning signs to keep an eye on.

1. Condensation on Windows Near Appliances

If you notice heavy condensation on your windows, namely near a combustion-based system like a gas fireplace, this could indicate that there’s an issue with ventilation. While condensation by itself may not mean CO, this clue should be checked out.

2. Brown, Sooty Stains

Appliances that run on combusting fuel should have clear exhaust. If you see brownish-yellow or dark stains around a furnace, fireplace or water heater, there may be combustion issues. This can signal a carbon monoxide issue.

3. Exhaust Fumes Are in the House

If you can notice exhaust indoors, you are at risk of carbon monoxide symptoms. Fuel-burning appliances like cars, charcoal grills and generators should exclusively be used safely outside the home to prevent an accumulation of exhaust fumes indoors.

4. Soot in or Around the Fireplace

Your fireplace vent should remove smoke and other gases up and out the chimney. Seeing soot buildup around your fireplace is a red flag, especially if there’s an unusual amount. A blocked chimney vent could be why carbon monoxide is coming back indoors.

5. Increasingly Weak or No Draft in the Chimney

On the topic of chimneys, a properly working one should have the solid updrafts to fully ventilate smoke and other fumes. If you notice reduced ventilation or even no draft at all, the chimney might be clogged, pushing carbon monoxide backward.

6. Yellowish or Inconsistent Flames

All appliances that use gas should have a distinct blue flame. When the flame is yellow or flickering (and you don’t have a decorative gas fireplace), it can mean the gas has combustion issues and might be releasing carbon monoxide.

7. Solid Fuel Fires Aren’t Burning as Fast

In situations where your wood or coal stove is burning slower than usual or has trouble even staying on, it could have a problem with airflow, 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 one could 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 household starts getting sick, especially together with any of the above signs, move outdoors immediately and contact emergency services.

Preventing CO Leaks and Top Safety Tips

It’s always better to prevent issues than respond to them, especially regarding carbon monoxide. First, make sure you have carbon monoxide detectors in all the right places. Building codes mandate them in hallways near all bedrooms, on each level of your home and in rooms with gas-powered equipment. For an additional safety measure, it’s smart to use interconnected detectors so that as soon as one detects CO, all of them will alarm you as well. Perform monthly testing and change them when required, usually every five to seven years.

In addition to 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.
• Avoid using grills, backup generators or similar equipment inside the house or garage.
• Use your stove vent if you’re cooking with a gas-powered oven, and never use these appliances for home heating.

Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing Will Help Protect Your Home and Family

At Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing, we know the risks of carbon monoxide gas. That’s why our team offers the best possible service for your heating and ventilation needs. Our goal is to keep your home comfortable, cost-effective, and most importantly, safe and secure. Please contact us today to make sure you’re following the necessary measures against carbon monoxide leaks.