Warning Signs You May Have A Carbon Monoxide Leak In Your Home
All fuel-burning appliances and engines produce carbon monoxide (CO), as do certain chemical products like paint strippers. When used in well-ventilated areas and operating correctly, these items typically don't pose a risk. However, in enclosed spaces, CO can build up quickly and reach dangerous levels. At Air Dynamics, we recommend being aware of the following warning signs that could indicate a potential carbon monoxide leak in your home or office.
Carbon Monoxide Leak: What To Look For
Flames or pilot lights on your gas stove that are normally blue have now turned yellow.
Your pilot light on your gas stove or furnace continually goes out.
IMPORTANT NOTE: This is a sign it could be malfunctioning and emitting carbon monoxide
Moisture building up on windows and walls, especially if they are in close proximity to a fuel-burning appliance.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Condensation could also be the result of excessive moisture in your home. It’s important to rule out other possibilities before concluding it may be a carbon monoxide leak
A sudden stale or stuffy smell in a clean home that is not normally present otherwise.
You notice a burning smell.
IMPORTANT NOTE: The smell wouldn’t necessarily be from carbon monoxide itself. Rather it could be an indicator that you potentially have other toxic gases currently being emitted from malfunctioning equipment.
Members of your household are feeling unwell and appear to get better when leaving the home.
Early symptoms of exposure to CO, after breathing it for a short time, include
Dull headache
Shortness of breath during mild exertion
Weakness or fatigue
Dizziness
Continued exposure to high levels of CO may result in
Nausea or vomiting
Visual disturbances, such as blurred vision
Difficulty concentrating
Unconsciousness potentially leading to death
If you suspect you or a loved one has been exposed to high levels of carbon monoxide, DO NOT WAIT! Immediately seek medical attention. A blood test will be able to accurately confirm or negate the presence of carbon monoxide in your body.
To have your heater tested for unsafe levels of carbon monoxide, contact a professional at Air Dynamics HVAC today!
