What Are the Signs of a Carbon Monoxide Gas Leak?

Carbon monoxide (CO) is referred to as the “silent killer” for a reason. It’s invisible, odorless and tough to notice without proper tools. If it accumulates in your home, it can swiftly pose a danger for you and your family. So, how do you stay safe against something you can’t really notice naturally?

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

1. Condensation on Windows Near Appliances

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

2. Discoloration or Soot-Like Stains

Appliances that run on combusting fuel should have clear exhaust. If you find brownish-yellow or dark stains around a heating system, fireplace or boiler, there may be combustion issues. This can be a sign of a carbon monoxide leak.

3. Exhaust Fumes Appear Indoors

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

4. Soot in or Around the Fireplace

Your fireplace should vent smoke and other gases through the chimney. Finding soot inside or around the fireplace is a warning sign, especially if there’s an unusual amount. An obstructed flue in the chimney could be the reason carbon monoxide is backdrafting indoors.

5. Weaker or No Draft from the Chimney

Speaking of chimneys, a properly working one should have the strong airflow to fully ventilate smoke and other fumes. If you find a weak draft or even no draft at all, the chimney could be obstructed, pushing carbon monoxide backward.

6. Discolored or Flickering Flames

Most gas-burning appliances 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 isn’t burning properly and could be releasing carbon monoxide.

7. Solid Fuel Fires Aren’t Burning as Fast

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

Symptoms of CO Poisoning

If you fail to notice the first red flags of a carbon monoxide leak in time, the next clue may soon come from your body. 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 alongside any of the previously mentioned clues, get fresh air immediately and call 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. For the most basic safety, make sure you have carbon monoxide detectors in all the right places. Building codes mandate them close to any bedrooms, on each floor of the house and in rooms with appliances like a gas stove or water heater. For an additional safety measure, it’s wise to set up interconnected detectors so that as soon as one detects carbon monoxide, all of them will alarm you as well. Perform monthly testing and replace them as needed, usually every five to seven years.

Along with having enough carbon monoxide detectors, keep these safety precautions in mind: