QUESTION FROM Rod

Hi - I have some type of leak from either my furnace or natural gas fireplace - i have soot in my attic pretty bad - please see picture and any helpful post would be great - I just don't know what it is? I have posted a picture of it to view below - Thank you - http://hometalk.com/Condoattic/condo1%20004.jpg

ANSWER FROM POLICY-Wizard™

Dear Rod:

Thank you very much for posting the picture of the situation in your attic, I wished everyone did this, as it makes it so much better when we can see a photo of what's going on.

From what I see in your photo, it does not appear to be just sooting, but rather, it looks like the outside surfaces of your flue pipe, ceiling and support members have been scorched. This could mean a VERY serious problem exists, and one that you should have addressed as soon as possible.

If this is indeed caused by scorching, then possible causes could include:

o very hot gases from your furnace or fireplace leaked into your attic, and were hot enough to cause the scorching.

o leaking flue gases accumulated in your attic and then ignited.

o leaking natural gas accumulated in your attic and then ignited.

Any of these represent very serious problems, and in my opinion should be checked out immediately. If this is the situation, then the risks are a house fire, carbon monoxide poisoning, etc.

Some potential people that you can have come out to look at your attic / furnace/ fireplace include:

1) your gas company.
2) local fire marshall.
3) certified home inspector.

Hope this is helpful.
Home-Wizard.com