What Are the Warning Signs of a Carbon Monoxide Gas Leak?

Carbon monoxide (CO) is referred to as the “silent killer” for a reason. It’s clear, odorless and difficult to notice without the right tools. If it accumulates in your home, it can rapidly turn into a serious hazard for you and your family. So, how do you protect yourself against something you can’t find with your senses?

The key is to install carbon monoxide detectors. These small alarm systems are your first line of defense, warning you about 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? These are 10 signs to keep an eye on.

1. Condensation on Windows Near Appliances

If you spot lots of condensation on your windows, especially near a combustion-based system like a gas fireplace, this could suggest that ventilation isn’t working properly. While condensation alone isn’t always CO-related, this still should be checked out.

2. Yellow or Brown Stains

Fuel-powered appliances should always have clear exhaust. If you notice brownish-yellow or dark stains around a heating system, fireplace or boiler, combustion isn’t happening as it should. This can signal a carbon monoxide risk.

3. Exhaust Fumes Appear Indoors

If you can smell exhaust fumes inside the house, you are in danger of carbon monoxide leaks. Devices that burn fuel 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 vent should remove smoke and other gases through the chimney. Seeing soot buildup around your fireplace is a warning sign, especially if there’s more than usual. An obstructed flue in the chimney could be why carbon monoxide is coming back into your home.

5. Weaker or No Draft in Your Chimney

Speaking of chimneys, a properly working one needs the steady pull to fully remove smoke and other fumes. If you find weak airflow or even no draft at all, your chimney could be blocked, sending carbon monoxide right back indoors.

6. Yellowish or Inconsistent 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 has combustion issues and may be producing carbon monoxide.

7. Solid Fuel Fires Aren’t Burning as Fast

In situations where your wood-burning stove is taking longer to burn or has trouble staying lit, it could have a problem with airflow, raising the risk of CO buildup.

Common Health Symptoms of CO Poisoning

If you miss the other 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 household suddenly feels sick, especially combined with any of the above signs, get fresh air immediately and call 911.

Prevention and Safety Tips

Prevention is always better than a cure, especially when it comes to CO gas exposure. For the most basic safety, make sure you have carbon monoxide detectors in appropriate places. Building codes mandate them close to any bedrooms, on each floor of the house and in rooms with gas-powered equipment. For an additional safety measure, it’s best to install interconnected detectors so that when one detects CO, all of them will raise the alarm. 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: