Father and daughter reading on living room floor

Are There Warnings of a Carbon Monoxide Leak?

Carbon monoxide (CO) is called the “silent killer” for a reason. It’s colorless, scentless and hard to notice without the right tools. If it builds up in your home, it can rapidly turn into a serious hazard for you and your family. So, how do you protect yourself 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, warning you about the presence of CO gas before the situation gets dangerous. But aside from a detector going off, how can you recognize if there’s a carbon monoxide leak in your home? Below are 10 warning signs to watch out for.

Weak or No Draft in the Chimney

Speaking of chimneys, a properly working one needs the strong airflow to fully pull out smoke and other fumes. If you notice weak airflow or even no draft at all, the chimney could be clogged, pushing carbon monoxide right back indoors.

Solid Fuel Fires Burn More Slowly

When your wood or coal stove is burning slower than usual or has trouble even staying on, it could be dealing with a venting problem, raising the risk of CO buildup.

Condensation on Windows Nearby Appliances

If you see lots of condensation on your windows, particularly near a combustion-based system like a gas fireplace, this could mean that ventilation isn’t working properly. While humidity or condensation itself doesn’t always mean CO, this still should be checked out.

Yellow or Flickering Flames

Gas-powered appliances should produce a steady blue flame. If the flame is weak and yellow (and you don’t have a decorative gas fireplace), it means the gas has combustion issues and could be releasing carbon monoxide.

Brown, Sooty Stains

Similarly, combustion-based appliances should always have clear exhaust. If you notice brownish-yellow or soot-like stains around a heater or gas fireplace, it could mean something’s wrong with the combustion process. This may point to a carbon monoxide issue.

Soot in or Around a Gas Fireplace

Your chimney should channel smoke and other gases through the chimney. Seeing soot buildup around your fireplace is cause for concern, especially if there’s an unusual amount. A clogged chimney could be the culprit for why carbon monoxide is backdrafting into your home.

Exhaust Fumes Indoors

If you start to smell or see exhaust fumes inside the house, you are at risk of carbon monoxide leaks. Gas-burning items like cars, charcoal grills and generators should exclusively be operated outside to avoid the buildup of exhaust fumes indoors.

Prevent CO Poisoning and Gas Leaks with These Safety Tips

Taking all the proper precautions is key, especially regarding carbon monoxide. First, check that there are carbon monoxide detectors in all the right places. Building codes mandate them in hallways near all bedrooms, on each floor of your home and in rooms with gas-powered equipment.

For an additional safety measure, it’s wise to use interconnected detectors so that if one detects CO, all of them will raise the alarm. Test these detectors monthly and change them when required, generally every five to seven years.

In addition to installing and maintaining carbon monoxide detectors, don’t forget these other tips:

  • Hire a professional to regularly inspect your heating system, fireplaces (both gas and wood), and any other fuel-burning appliances.
  • Avoid using grills, portable backup generators or similar equipment inside the house or garage.
  • Run the kitchen exhaust fan whenever you’re cooking with a gas-fired oven or stove, and avoid using these appliances as a heat source.

Common Health Symptoms of CO Poisoning

If you fail to notice the first red flags of a carbon monoxide leak in time, the next clue 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 family suddenly feels sick, especially together with any of the previously mentioned clues, get fresh air immediately and call 911.

Environmental Systems Associates Can Help Protect Your Home and Family

At Environmental Systems Associates we recognize the dangers of carbon monoxide gas. That’s why our team delivers the best possible service for your heating and ventilation needs. Our goal is to keep your home comfortable, cost-effective, and most importantly, secure. Please contact us today to make sure you’re following the necessary measures against carbon monoxide leaks.