Learn the Warnings of a Carbon Monoxide Gas Leak?

Carbon monoxide (CO) is known as the “silent killer” for a reason. It’s colorless, scentless and hard to detect 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 find with your senses?

The key is to use carbon monoxide detectors. These small alarm systems are the first line of defense, notifying you of the presence of CO gas before the situation reaches dangerous levels. But besides a detector going off, how can you recognize if there’s a carbon monoxide leak in your home? Here are 10 clues to be aware of.

Increasingly Weak or No Draft in Your Chimney

Speaking of chimneys, a properly working one should have the steady pull to fully ventilate smoke and other fumes. If you notice reduced ventilation or even no draft at all, the chimney might be blocked, forcing carbon monoxide back into your home.

Solid Fuel Fires Burn More Slowly

When your wood- or coal-fired 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 notice lots of condensation on your windows, particularly near a fuel-burning appliance like a gas fireplace, this could mean that ventilation isn’t working properly. While condensation by itself may not mean CO, this still warrants investigation.

Discolored or Inconsistent Flames

Gas-powered appliances should have a distinct blue flame. When the flame is weak and yellow (and you don’t have a decorative gas fireplace), it can mean the gas has combustion issues and may be emitting carbon monoxide.

Brown, Sooty Stains

Similarly, combustion-based appliances should always have unobstructed ventilation. If you notice brownish-yellow or soot-like stains around a heater or gas fireplace, there may be combustion issues. This can signal a carbon monoxide leak.

Soot in or Around a Natural Gas-Burning Fireplace

Your chimney should channel smoke and other gases up and out the chimney. Finding soot inside or around the fireplace is cause for concern, especially if there’s an unusual amount. A blocked chimney vent could be the reason carbon monoxide is leaking back indoors.

Exhaust Fumes Appear Indoors

If you start to smell or see exhaust fumes indoors, you are at risk of carbon monoxide exposure. Gas-burning items like cars, charcoal grills and generators should always be used safely outside the home to avoid the buildup of exhaust fumes indoors.

Prevention and Safety Tips

Prevention is always better than a cure, especially regarding carbon monoxide. To start, make sure you have carbon monoxide detectors in all the right places. Building codes mandate them close to any bedrooms, on each level 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 whenever one detects CO, all of them will alarm you as well. Perform monthly testing and swap them out when necessary, about every five to seven years.

Besides using carbon monoxide detectors, don’t forget these other tips:

• Work with local Experts to regularly inspect your heating system, fireplace and any other fuel-burning appliances.
• Avoid using grills, portable generators or similar equipment inside the house or garage.
• Use your stove vent if you’re cooking with a gas stove, and never use these appliances as a heat source.

Common Health Symptoms of CO Poisoning

If you miss the other signs of a carbon monoxide leak in time, the next one may soon 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 home experiences these symptoms, especially alongside any of the warning signs listed above, get fresh air immediately and call 911.

Mark Allen Can Help Keep Your Household Safe

At Mark Allen we recognize the risks of carbon monoxide gas leaks. That’s why our team provides fast, long-lasting solutions for your heating and ventilation needs. We’ll do our best to keep your home comfortable, cost-effective, and most importantly, secure. Please contact us today to ensure you’re taking the best precautions against carbon monoxide leaks.