What do you to know about Carbon Monoxide alarms?

Carbon Monoxide alarms are not smoke detectors!

Carbon Monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless and tasteless gas. It is the biproduct of incomplete combustion and it may be found in smoke. CO is in the air that we breath, this means that our bodies can handle low levels of exposure. At higher levels this gas is deadly to humans. It is known as the “silent killer” because people cannot tell when they are around it.

The Carbon Monoxide Detector is a safety device that can alert homeowners of a CO leak and help them escape a potentially life-threatening situation, like CO poisoning.

When considering purchasing and installing CO alarms there are a few things you should know beforehand:

1. What does a Carbon Monoxide Detector do? 

Carbon monoxide alarms detect the poisonous gas and provide early warning in the event of a CO leak. It is critical that you get to fresh air as soon as possible. Every second counts. CO detectors can provide you and your family the advanced warning necessary to escape your home during this emergency.

2. What are the main sources of CO leaks?

CO can be produced by any fuel-burning device. Three common sources are your home’s furnace, dryer and fireplace or wood burning stove. It is important to have these sources regularly serviced and cleaned by a professional to help prevent a CO leak that could lead to CO poisoning.

3. Where do you install Carbon Monoxide Detectors?

It is important to have CO alarms on every level of your home so all family members can hear the detectors and be alerted to the emergency. You should also have Carbon Monoxide Detectors outside each sleeping area and in the common rooms for extra safety while you and your family are sleeping.

4. Where should Carbon Monoxide alarms be placed in each room?

Carbon Monoxide Detectors can be placed anywhere in the room. CO is lighter than air, so for the earliest warning the detector should be installed as high as possible on the wall or the ceiling.

5. What does it mean if my Carbon Monoxide alarm is beeping? 

The alarm has different beep patterns to communicate whether there is an emergency or simply a need to replace the battery. It is important to know the difference between the beeps. Refer to your alarm’s user manual for your specific model.

6. How often should you replace your Carbon Monoxide Detectors?

If your Carbon Monoxide detector has replaceable batteries, they should be changed at least every six months. At the change of daylight savings time is a good reminder. Although you replace the batteries, carbon monoxide alarms don’t last forever. They have a lifetime of five to seven years but it is important to refer to your user manual. After five to seven years, replace the CO alarm completely.