What Are the Warning Signs of a Carbon Monoxide Leak?

Carbon monoxide (CO) is referred to as the “silent killer” for a reason. It’s invisible, scentless and hard to recognize without proper tools. If it builds up in your home, it can rapidly turn into a danger for you and your family. So, how do you protect yourself against something you can’t really notice naturally?

The key is to install carbon monoxide detectors. These safety devices are your initial 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 tell if there’s a carbon monoxide leak in your home? Below are 10 warning signs to watch out for.

1. Condensation on Windows Near Appliances

If you notice lots of condensation on your windows, especially near a gas-powered device like a gas fireplace, this could suggest that something isn’t venting correctly. While condensation by itself may not mean CO, this still should be checked out.

2. Yellow or Brown Stains

Appliances that run on combusting fuel should always have clean, clear exhaust. If you notice brownish-yellow or sooty stains around a heating system, fireplace or boiler, combustion isn’t happening as it should. This can be a sign of a carbon monoxide risk.

3. Exhaust Fumes Indoors

If you start to smell exhaust fumes indoors, you are in danger of carbon monoxide symptoms. Gas-burning items like cars, charcoal grills and generators should exclusively be used outdoors to reduce the risk of exhaust fumes indoors.

4. Soot in or Around a Natural Gas-Burning Fireplace

Your fireplace should vent smoke and other gases through the chimney. Seeing soot buildup around your fireplace is a warning sign, especially if there’s excessive amounts. A clogged chimney could be the culprit for why carbon monoxide is backdrafting into your home.

5. Weaker or No Draft from Your Chimney

Speaking of chimneys, a properly working one should have the solid updrafts to fully pull out smoke and other fumes. If you find weak airflow or even no draft at all, your chimney might be clogged, sending carbon monoxide backward.

6. Discolored or Weak Flames

Most gas-burning appliances should produce a distinct blue flame. If the flame is weak and yellow (and it’s not a decorative gas fireplace), it means the gas has combustion issues and may be emitting carbon monoxide.

7. Solid Fuel Fires Burn More Slowly

If your wood-burning stove starts burning slower than usual or has trouble even staying on, it could have a venting problem, increasing the risk of CO buildup.

Common Health Symptoms of CO Poisoning

If you fail to notice the initial warning signs of a carbon monoxide leak in time, the next clue may soon come from your health and well-being. 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 experiences these symptoms, especially together with any of the above signs, move outdoors immediately and contact emergency services.

Prevent CO Poisoning and Gas Leaks with These Safety Tips

It’s always better to prevent issues than respond to them, especially when it comes to carbon monoxide. First, ensure you’ve installed carbon monoxide detectors in appropriate places. Building codes require them close to any bedrooms, on each floor of the house and in rooms with gas-powered equipment. For extra safety, it’s wise to set up interconnected detectors so that if one detects carbon monoxide, all of them will sound. Test these detectors monthly and swap them out when necessary, usually every five to seven years.

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