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Carbon Monoxide and Your Fireplace or Stove
Carbon monoxide has no color and no smell. A chimney that is blocked or damaged can send it into the home, which is why alarms and annual chimney care both matter.
What carbon monoxide is
The CDC describes carbon monoxide (CO) as an invisible, odorless gas that can cause sudden illness and death. It is produced when fuel burns, including in fireplaces, furnaces, stoves and water heaters. In a home with a working chimney, the gas leaves with the smoke. If the flue is blocked, damaged or not drawing, it can build up indoors.
Symptoms
The CDC lists headache, dizziness, weakness, upset stomach, vomiting, chest pain and confusion, which can resemble the flu. People who are asleep or have been drinking may not notice symptoms before they become seriously ill. Infants, older adults and people with heart or breathing conditions can be affected more severely.
If an alarm sounds or you feel symptoms: get everyone, including pets, outside into fresh air and call 911. Do not go back in to find the cause.
How a chimney problem can lead to CO in the home
- A blocked flue: nests, debris, fallen liner pieces or heavy creosote.
- A missing or damaged cap that lets animals in.
- Cracks or gaps that let gases escape into walls or rooms.
- Poor draft; see smoke problems and poor draft.
Prevention steps recommended by the CDC
- Install battery-operated or battery-backup CO alarms near every sleeping area, test them regularly and replace them on the manufacturer’s schedule.
- Have heating appliances serviced yearly by a qualified technician.
- Have chimneys inspected and cleaned each year.
- Never burn charcoal indoors and never use a gas oven to heat the home.
What we do
Our work focuses on the chimney itself: inspection, cleaning and the repairs that keep the flue open and sealed. We do not replace CO alarms or service your furnace; follow the CDC advice for those and call a licensed technician where needed.
Frequently asked questions
Does a smoke alarm detect CO?
No, unless it is a combination device that states it does. Check the label.
Can a clean chimney still be unsafe?
Cleaning removes deposits but does not repair cracks or a failed liner, which is why inspection comes first. See how often to inspect and clean.
Do gas logs produce CO?
Any fuel-burning appliance can. Venting must be correct, and an alarm is still advised.
Have the chimney checked
Request a visit or call (862) 225-6529.
Sources
- CDC: About Carbon Monoxide (what it is, symptoms, sources, prevention: alarms, yearly servicing, chimney inspection)