What You Can See: Initial Visual Cues
Before any tools come out, the diagnostic sequence begins with a thorough visual inspection. We're looking for overt signs of trouble that you might have already noticed. This includes visible sooting or staining around the appliance, which indicates incomplete combustion. A yellow, lazy flame on an open-flued appliance is another significant red flag, contrasting with the crisp blue flame of a healthy burner. We'll also check the immediate environment: has the ventilation been altered or blocked? Has recent building work, perhaps an extension on a Victorian terrace, disturbed the flue route?
- Visible sooting or staining on or near appliance
- Yellow, lazy flames instead of crisp blue
- Blocked or altered ventilation around appliance
- Flue route disturbed by recent building work
- Activated carbon monoxide alarm

