What Are the 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 detect without proper tools. If it collects in your home, it can rapidly turn into a danger for you and your family. So, how do you protect yourself against something you can’t see, smell,or taste?
The key is to use carbon monoxide detectors. These small alarm systems are your initial 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 tell if there’s a carbon monoxide leak in your home? These are 10 signs to keep an eye on.
Increasingly Weak or No Draft from the Chimney
On the topic of chimneys, a properly working one should have the steady pull to fully remove smoke and other fumes. If you notice reduced ventilation or even no draft at all, the chimney might be obstructed, sending carbon monoxide back into your home.
Solid Fuel Fires Aren’t Burning as Fast
When your wood or coal stove starts taking longer to burn or has trouble maintaining a flame, it could be dealing with a problem with airflow, increasing the risk of CO buildup.
Condensation on Windows Near Appliances
If you spot heavy condensation on your windows, particularly near a gas-powered device like a gas fireplace, this could suggest that ventilation isn’t working properly. While humidity or condensation itself doesn’t always mean CO, this clue deserves a closer look.
Discolored or Weak Flames
Gas-powered appliances should have a distinct blue flame. When the flame is yellow or flickering (and you don’t have a decorative gas fireplace), it means the gas is burning inefficiently and might be producing carbon monoxide.
Yellow or Brown Stains
Similarly, appliances that run on combusting fuel should always have clear exhaust. If you find brownish-yellow or dark stains around a heater or gas fireplace, it could mean something’s wrong with the combustion process. This may point to a carbon monoxide leak.
Soot in or Around a Gas Fireplace
Your fireplace should vent smoke and other gases up through and out the chimney. Finding soot inside or around the fireplace is a red flag, especially if there’s more than usual. A clogged chimney could be the culprit for why carbon monoxide is backdrafting into your home.
Exhaust Fumes Are in the House
If you can smell or see exhaust fumes indoors, you are in danger of carbon monoxide leaks. Gas-burning items like cars, charcoal grills and generators should exclusively be used outdoors to prevent an accumulation of exhaust fumes indoors.
Preventing CO Leaks and Top Safety Tips
Taking all the proper precautions is key, especially regarding carbon monoxide. For the most basic safety, ensure you’ve installed carbon monoxide detectors in all the right places. Building codes require them in hallways near all bedrooms, on each level of the house and in rooms with fuel-burning appliances.
For extra safety, it’s smart to install interconnected detectors so that if one goes off, all of them will alarm you as well. Check your alarms monthly and change them when required, generally every five to seven years.
In addition to having enough carbon monoxide detectors, follow these safety tips:
- Work with local Experts to regularly inspect your heating system, gas or wood fireplace, and all other fuel-burning appliances.
- Don’t allow anyone to use grills, portable generators or similar equipment inside the house or garage.
- Turn on the range hood when cooking with a gas stove, and never use these appliances to try and heat your home.
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 might come from your health and well-being. 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 alongside any of the above signs, leave the house right away for fresh air before you dial 911.
Hays Cooling, Heating & Plumbing Goes Above and Beyond to Help Ensure You and Your Family’s Safety
At Hays Cooling, Heating & Plumbing we recognize the health and safety risks of carbon monoxide exposure. That’s why our team offers the best possible service for your heating and ventilation needs. We’ll keep your home comfortable, cost-effective, and most importantly, safe and secure. Please contact us today to confirm you have the best precautions against carbon monoxide leaks.
