What Are the Warnings of a Carbon Monoxide Leak?

Carbon monoxide (CO) is referred to as the “silent killer” for a reason. It’s invisible, odorless and hard to recognize without proper tools. If it accumulates 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 use carbon monoxide detectors. These safety devices are your initial line of defense, alerting you to the presence of CO gas before the situation becomes life-threatening. But other than a detector going off, how can you recognize if there’s a carbon monoxide leak in your home? Below are 10 signs to be aware of.

Weak or No Draft in Your Chimney

Speaking of chimneys, a properly working one should have the solid updrafts to fully remove smoke and other fumes. If you detect weak airflow or even no draft at all, the chimney might be clogged, pushing carbon monoxide right back indoors.

Solid Fuel Fires Burning Slowly

If your wood or coal stove starts struggling to burn all the way through or has trouble even staying on, it could be dealing with a ventilation issue, heightening the possibility of CO buildup.

Condensation on Windows Closest to Appliances

If you spot lots of condensation on your windows, namely near a gas-powered device like a gas fireplace, this could indicate that there’s an issue with ventilation. While condensation by itself may not mean CO, this clue deserves a closer look.

Yellowish or Inconsistent Flames

Most gas-burning appliances should have a steady blue flame. When the flame is weaker and yellow (and you don’t have a decorative gas fireplace), it means the gas has combustion issues and might be producing carbon monoxide.

Brown, Sooty Stains

Similarly, combustion-based appliances should always have unobstructed ventilation. If you find brownish-yellow or sooty stains around a furnace, fireplace or water heater, there may be combustion issues. This can be a sign of a carbon monoxide issue.

Soot in or Around Your Fireplace

Your chimney should channel smoke and other gases up through and out the chimney. Finding soot inside or around the fireplace is cause for concern, especially if there’s more than usual. A clogged chimney could be why carbon monoxide is coming back indoors.

Exhaust Fumes Are in the House

If you can notice exhaust indoors, you are in danger of carbon monoxide symptoms. Fuel-burning appliances like cars, charcoal grills and generators should always be operated outside to reduce the risk of exhaust fumes indoors.

Preventing CO Leaks and Top Safety Tips

It’s always better to prevent issues than respond to them, especially when it comes to carbon monoxide. First, check that there are carbon monoxide detectors in appropriate places. Building codes require them outside every bedroom, on each floor of the house and in rooms with appliances like a gas stove or water heater.

For added security, it’s wise to set up interconnected detectors so that if one goes off, all of them will raise the alarm. Check your alarms monthly and swap them out when necessary, approximately every five to seven years.

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

• Schedule a certified technician to regularly inspect your heating system, fireplace and all other fuel-burning appliances.
• Never use grills, backup generators or similar equipment indoors or in enclosed spaces.
• Run the kitchen exhaust fan whenever you’re cooking with a gas-powered oven, 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 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 household starts getting sick, especially combined with any of the above signs, get fresh air immediately and call 911.

Geisel Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing, Inc. Can Help Protect Your Home and Family

At Geisel Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing, Inc. we understand the dangers of carbon monoxide gas leaks. That’s why our team provides the best possible service for your heating and ventilation needs. We’ll do our best to keep your home cozy, cost-effective, and most importantly, secure. Please contact us today to make sure you’re following the necessary measures against carbon monoxide leaks.