What Are the Warning Signs of a Carbon Monoxide Leak?

Carbon monoxide (CO) is known as the “silent killer” for a reason. It’s clear, odorless and hard to recognize without proper tools. If it collects in your home, it can quickly become a serious threat 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 small alarm systems are your first line of defense, alerting you to 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 keep an eye on.

1. Condensation on Windows Closest to Appliances

If you notice lots of condensation on your windows, especially near a gas-powered device like a gas fireplace, this could suggest that there’s an issue with ventilation. While humidity or condensation itself doesn’t always mean CO, this clue warrants investigation.

2. Brown, Sooty Stains

Appliances that run on combusting fuel should always have clean, clear exhaust. If you see brownish-yellow or sooty stains around a heater or gas fireplace, combustion isn’t happening as it should. This can be a sign of a carbon monoxide issue.

3. Exhaust Fumes Are Inside

If you start to notice exhaust indoors, you are at risk of carbon monoxide leaks. Devices that burn fuel like cars, charcoal grills and generators should only be used safely outside the home to reduce the risk of exhaust fumes indoors.

4. Soot in or Around a Natural Gas-Burning Fireplace

Your chimney should channel smoke and other gases through the chimney. Finding soot inside or around the fireplace is a red flag, especially if there’s excessive amounts. A clogged chimney could be the reason carbon monoxide is backdrafting into your home.

5. Weak or No Draft from the Chimney

Staying on the topic of chimneys, a properly working one should have the strong airflow to fully ventilate smoke and other fumes. If you find a weak draft or even no draft at all, the chimney may be clogged, sending carbon monoxide backward.

6. Yellow or Weak Flames

All appliances that use gas should have a clear blue flame. Whenever the flame is weak and yellow (and it isn’t a decorative gas fireplace), it means the gas has combustion issues and could be emitting carbon monoxide.

7. Solid Fuel Fires Burn More Slowly

If your wood or coal stove starts burning slower than usual or has trouble maintaining a flame, it could have a ventilation issue, increasing the risk of CO buildup.

Symptoms of CO Poisoning

If you miss the initial warning signs of a carbon monoxide leak in time, the next one could come from your body. 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 starts getting sick, especially together with any of the warning signs listed above, leave the house right away for fresh air before you dial 911.

Prevention and Safety Tips

It’s always better to prevent issues than respond to them, especially regarding carbon monoxide. For the most basic safety, make sure you have carbon monoxide detectors in appropriate places. Building codes mandate them outside every bedroom, on each floor of the house and in rooms with gas-powered equipment. For an additional safety measure, it’s smart to set up interconnected detectors so that whenever one detects CO, all of them will sound. Check your alarms monthly and replace them as needed, usually every five to seven years.

Along with having enough carbon monoxide detectors, keep these safety precautions in mind:

• Hire a professional to regularly inspect your heating system, gas or wood fireplace, and all other fuel-burning appliances.
• Avoid using grills, portable backup generators or similar equipment indoors or in enclosed spaces.
• Use your stove vent when cooking with a gas-fired oven or stove, and avoid using these appliances as a heat source.

Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing Goes Above and Beyond to Help Ensure You and Your Family’s Safety

At Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing, we understand the health and safety risks of carbon monoxide gas. That’s why our team provides fast, long-lasting solutions for your heating and ventilation needs. Our goal is to keep your home cozy, cost-efficient, and most importantly, safe and secure. Please contact us today to ensure you’re taking the best precautions against carbon monoxide leaks.