Are There Warnings of a Carbon Monoxide Gas Leak?

Carbon monoxide (CO) is referred to as the “silent killer” for a reason. It’s colorless, odorless and difficult to detect without the right tools. If it collects in your home, it can quickly become a serious hazard for you and your family. So, how do you protect yourself against something you can’t see, smell,or taste?

The key is to install carbon monoxide detectors. These safety devices are the first line of defense, notifying you of the presence of CO gas before the situation becomes life-threatening. But aside from a detector going off, how can you recognize if there’s a carbon monoxide leak in your home? These are 10 signs to keep an eye on.

Increasingly Weak or No Draft in Your Chimney

Staying on the topic of chimneys, a properly working one needs the strong airflow to fully remove smoke and other fumes. If you find weak airflow or even no draft at all, your chimney could be obstructed, pushing carbon monoxide backward.

Solid Fuel Fires Burn More Slowly

In situations where your wood-burning stove begins burning slower than usual or has trouble even staying on, it could be dealing with a venting problem, increasing the risk of CO buildup.

Condensation on Windows Closest to Appliances

If you notice heavy condensation on your windows, especially near a fuel-burning appliance like a gas fireplace, this could mean that there’s an issue with ventilation. While condensation by itself may not mean CO, this clue should be checked out.

Yellow or Flickering Flames

All appliances that use gas should produce a steady blue flame. If the flame is weak and yellow (and it isn’t a decorative gas fireplace), it means the gas isn’t burning properly and could be producing carbon monoxide.

Yellow or Brown Stains

Similarly, combustion-based appliances should always have clean, clear exhaust. If you notice brownish-yellow or soot-like stains around a heater or gas fireplace, combustion isn’t happening as it should. This may point to a carbon monoxide leak.

Soot in or Around the Fireplace

Your fireplace should vent smoke and other gases up through and out the chimney. Seeing soot buildup around your fireplace is cause for concern, especially if there’s more than usual. An obstructed flue in the chimney could be why carbon monoxide is backdrafting into your home.

Exhaust Fumes Indoors

If you can smell or see exhaust fumes inside the house, you are at risk of carbon monoxide leaks. Fuel-burning appliances like cars, charcoal grills and generators should exclusively be used outdoors to prevent an accumulation of exhaust fumes indoors.

Prevent CO Poisoning and Gas Leaks with These Safety Tips

It’s always better to prevent issues than respond to them, especially regarding CO gas exposure. For the most basic safety, make sure you have carbon monoxide detectors in appropriate places. Building codes mandate them in hallways near all bedrooms, on each floor of the house and in rooms with fuel-burning appliances.

For an additional safety measure, it’s smart to set up interconnected detectors so that as soon as one detects CO, all of them will alarm you as well. Perform monthly testing and change them when required, usually every five to seven years.

Besides installing and maintaining carbon monoxide detectors, keep these safety precautions in mind:

• Work with local Experts to regularly inspect your heating system, fireplaces (both gas and wood), and any other fuel-burning appliances.
• Never use grills, portable generators or similar equipment inside, especially in small spaces.
• Run the kitchen exhaust fan if you’re cooking with a gas-fired oven or stove, and avoid using these appliances for home heating.

Symptoms of CO Poisoning

If you fail to notice the first red flags of a carbon monoxide leak in time, the next one 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 experiences these symptoms, especially together with any of the previously mentioned clues, leave the house right away for fresh air before you dial 911.

Olympic Aire Can Help Protect Your Home and Family

At Olympic Aire we recognize the risks of carbon monoxide poisoning. That’s why our team delivers 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, safe and secure. Please contact us today to confirm you have the best precautions against carbon monoxide leaks.