How can I tell if there is a risk of carbon monoxide poisoning in my home?

A: Have your fuel-burning appliances inspected by a qualified technician at least once a year. A qualified technician should have practical knowledge of the operation, installation and proper ventilation of fossil-fuel-burning devices; carry the applicable insurance; be bonded; and be licensed to perform heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) work in your area.

Be alert to these danger signs that signal a potential CO problem:

• Streaks of carbon or soot around the service door of your fuel-burning appliances.
• The absence of a draft in your chimney (indicating blockage).
• Excessive rusting on flue pipes or appliance jackets.
• Moisture collecting on windows and walls of furnace rooms.
• Fallen soot from the fireplace.
• Small amounts of water leaking from the base of the chimney, vent or flue pipe.
• Damaged or discolored bricks at the top of your chimney.
• Rust on the portion of the vent pipe visible from outside your home.

Also, recognize that CO poisoning may be the cause when family members suffer from flu-like symptoms that don’t disappear but improve when they leave home for extended periods of time.

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