What Are the Signs of a Carbon Monoxide Leak?

Carbon monoxide (CO) is referred to as the “silent killer” for a reason. It’s colorless, scentless and hard to recognize without proper tools. If it builds up in your home, it can swiftly pose a serious threat for you and your family. So, how do you guard against something you can’t see, smell or taste?

The key is to have carbon monoxide detectors. These small alarm systems are your initial line of defense, warning you about the presence of CO gas before the situation becomes life-threatening. But other than a detector going off, how can you know if there’s a carbon monoxide leak in your home? These are 10 clues to keep an eye on.

1. Condensation on Windows Nearby 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 still should be checked out.

2. Brown, Sooty Stains

Fuel-powered appliances should always have clean, clear exhaust. If you notice brownish-yellow or dark stains around a furnace, fireplace or water heater, combustion isn’t happening as it should. This may point to a carbon monoxide leak.

3. Exhaust Fumes Indoors

If you can smell or see exhaust fumes inside the house, you are at risk of carbon monoxide symptoms. Gas-burning items like cars, charcoal grills and generators should always be used outdoors to reduce the risk of exhaust fumes indoors.

4. Soot in or Around Your Fireplace

Your fireplace should vent smoke and other gases up through and out the chimney. Noticing more soot or grime is cause for concern, especially if there’s an unusual amount. A clogged chimney could be the culprit for why carbon monoxide is leaking back indoors.

5. Weak or No Draft in Your Chimney

On the topic of chimneys, a properly working one should have the steady pull to fully remove smoke and other fumes. If you detect a weak draft or even no draft at all, the chimney might be obstructed, sending carbon monoxide right back indoors.

6. Yellowish or Flickering Flames

All appliances that use gas should produce a distinct blue flame. If the flame is yellow or flickering (and it isn’t a decorative gas fireplace), it means the gas is burning inefficiently and could be emitting carbon monoxide.

7. Solid Fuel Fires Aren’t Burning as Fast

When your wood-burning stove is struggling to burn all the way through or has trouble staying lit, it could be dealing with a ventilation issue, raising the risk of CO buildup.

Common Health Symptoms of CO Poisoning

If you miss the first red flags of a carbon monoxide leak in time, the next clue could come from your body. Symptoms of CO poisoning can be:

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 previously mentioned clues, leave the house right away for fresh air before you dial 911.

Prevent CO Poisoning and Gas Leaks with These Safety Tips

It’s always better to prevent issues than respond to them, especially regarding carbon monoxide. First, check that there are carbon monoxide detectors in appropriate places. Building codes mandate them outside every bedroom, on each floor of the house and in rooms with appliances like a gas stove or water heater. For extra safety, it’s smart to install interconnected detectors so that when one goes off, all of them will sound. Check your alarms monthly and change them when required, approximately every five to seven years.

Besides installing and maintaining carbon monoxide detectors, don’t forget these other tips: