What Are the Warning Signs of a Carbon Monoxide Leak?

Carbon monoxide (CO) is known as the “silent killer” for a reason. It’s invisible, scentless and difficult to recognize without the right tools. If it collects in your home, it can swiftly pose a serious threat for you and your family. So, how do you stay safe against something you can’t see, smell or taste?

The key is to use carbon monoxide detectors. These alarms are the initial line of defense, notifying you of the presence of CO gas before the situation gets dangerous. But besides a detector going off, how can you know if there’s a carbon monoxide leak in your home? Here are 10 warning signs to watch out for.

1. Condensation on Windows Closest to Appliances

If you see lots of condensation on your windows, namely near a fuel-burning appliance like a gas fireplace, this could indicate that ventilation isn’t working properly. While condensation by itself may not mean CO, this still should be checked out.

2. Yellow or Brown Stains

Fuel-powered appliances should always have unobstructed ventilation. If you notice brownish-yellow or soot-like stains around a furnace, fireplace or water heater, combustion isn’t happening as it should. This can be a sign of a carbon monoxide risk.

3. Exhaust Fumes Appear Indoors

If you start to smell or see exhaust fumes indoors, you are in danger of carbon monoxide leaks. Devices that burn fuel 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 Natural Gas-Burning Fireplace

Your chimney should channel smoke and other gases up and out the chimney. Noticing more soot or grime is cause for concern, especially if there’s more than usual. An obstructed flue in the chimney could be the culprit for why carbon monoxide is coming back into your home.

5. Weaker or No Draft in Your Chimney

Staying on the topic of chimneys, a properly working one should have the solid updrafts to fully ventilate smoke and other fumes. If you notice a weak draft or even no draft at all, your chimney could be blocked, pushing carbon monoxide back into your home.

6. Yellow or Weak Flames

Gas-powered appliances should have a distinct blue flame. Whenever the flame is weaker and yellow (and it isn’t a decorative gas fireplace), it can mean the gas has combustion issues and could be releasing carbon monoxide.

7. Solid Fuel Fires Burning Slowly

When your wood- or coal-fired stove begins taking longer to burn or has trouble staying lit, it could have a ventilation issue, heightening the possibility of CO buildup.

Signs You May Have CO Poisoning

If you miss the first red flags of a carbon monoxide leak in time, the next warning 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 home starts getting sick, especially combined with any of the above signs, leave the house right away for fresh air before you dial 911.

Preventing CO Leaks and Top Safety Tips

It’s always better to prevent issues than respond to them, especially regarding CO gas exposure. To start, check that there are carbon monoxide detectors in all the right places. Building codes mandate them in hallways near all bedrooms, on each level of the house and in rooms with fuel-burning appliances. For an additional safety measure, it’s wise to use interconnected detectors so that whenever one detects CO, all of them will alarm you as well. Perform monthly testing and replace them as needed, about every five to seven years.

Besides having enough carbon monoxide detectors, don’t forget these other tips:

  • Work with local Experts to regularly inspect your heating system, gas or wood fireplace, and any other fuel-burning appliances.
  • Avoid using grills, portable backup generators or similar equipment inside the house or garage.
  • Turn on the range hood whenever you’re cooking with a gas-powered oven, and avoid using these appliances to try and heat your home.

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 poisoning. That’s why our team offers reliable and effective services for your heating and ventilation needs. We’ll keep your home cozy, cost-efficient, and most importantly, secure. Please contact us today to confirm you have the necessary measures against carbon monoxide leaks.

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