What Are the Red Flags of a Carbon Monoxide Leak?

Carbon monoxide (CO) is known as the “silent killer” for a reason. It’s colorless, scentless and difficult to notice without proper tools. If it builds up in your home, it can quickly become a danger for you and your family. So, how do you guard against something you can’t really notice naturally?

The key is to have carbon monoxide detectors. These safety devices are the initial line of defense, alerting you to the presence of CO gas before the situation reaches dangerous levels. But besides a detector going off, how can you recognize if there’s a carbon monoxide leak in your home? Below are 10 signs to watch out for.

1. Condensation on Windows Near Appliances

If you spot 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 humidity or condensation itself doesn’t always mean CO, this clue should be checked out.

2. Discoloration or Soot-Like Stains

Combustion-based appliances should have unobstructed ventilation. If you find brownish-yellow or soot-like stains around a heater or gas fireplace, combustion isn’t happening as it should. This may point to a carbon monoxide issue.

3. Exhaust Fumes Appear Indoors

If you start to smell exhaust fumes inside the house, you are in danger of carbon monoxide leaks. Gas-burning items like cars, charcoal grills and generators should always be used outdoors to reduce the risk of exhaust fumes indoors.

4. Soot in or Around the Fireplace

Your fireplace vent should remove smoke and other gases through the chimney. Seeing soot buildup around your fireplace is a warning sign, especially if there’s more than usual. An obstructed flue in the chimney could be why carbon monoxide is backdrafting indoors.

5. Increasingly Weak or No Draft from Your Chimney

On the topic of chimneys, a properly working one should have the solid updrafts to fully pull out smoke and other fumes. If you notice weak airflow or even no draft at all, your chimney could be obstructed, forcing carbon monoxide right back indoors.

6. Discolored or Inconsistent Flames

Gas-powered appliances should have a steady blue flame. Whenever the flame is yellow or flickering (and it isn’t a decorative gas fireplace), it can mean the gas isn’t burning properly and may be producing carbon monoxide.

7. Solid Fuel Fires Burning Slowly

In situations where your wood or coal stove is struggling to burn all the way through or has trouble maintaining a flame, it could have a venting problem, raising the risk of CO buildup.

Signs You May Have CO Poisoning

If you miss the initial warning signs of a carbon monoxide leak in time, the next one could come from your health. Symptoms of CO poisoning may involve:

• 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 alongside any of the above signs, move outdoors immediately and contact emergency services.

Prevention and Safety Tips

Taking all the proper precautions is key, especially regarding CO gas exposure. First, ensure you’ve installed carbon monoxide detectors in appropriate places. Building codes require them in hallways near all bedrooms, on each floor of the house and in rooms with fuel-burning appliances. For added security, it’s smart to install interconnected detectors so that as soon as one detects CO, all of them will sound. Test these detectors monthly and swap them out when necessary, usually every five to seven years.

In addition to using carbon monoxide detectors, follow these safety tips:

• Work with local Experts to regularly inspect your heating system, fireplace and all other fuel-burning appliances.
• Never use grills, portable backup generators or similar equipment inside the house or garage.
• Use your stove vent whenever you’re cooking with a gas-fired oven or stove, and avoid using these appliances for home heating.

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

At Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing, we understand the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning. 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-efficient, and most importantly, safe. Please contact us today to make sure you’re following the best precautions against carbon monoxide leaks.