Carbon Monoxide Detectors – Common Questions
Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning is more common in the winter, which means it’s time to talk carbon monoxide detectors. Do you have a carbon monoxide detector? Do you know the best place to put it? How many you need? How do you maintain it? These are just some of the common questions we’d love to answer today, to keep you and your family safe this winter.
Do I need a carbon monoxide detector?
Carbon monoxide is a deadly (and completely odorless and tasteless) gas that is produced by burning fuels. While the common culprits are dryers, furnaces, and fireplaces, any fuel-burning appliance creates carbon monoxide. If there are problems with installation, ventilation, or cracks, you may have a leak that can have deadly consequences. Because you’ll receive no warning that this gas is present, you need a detector to keep you and your family safe.
How many carbon monoxide detectors should I have? Where should they be installed?
You should have a detector on every level of your home, including a finished basement, and in all of your sleeping areas. If you only have one, make sure it is located in the main sleeping area, or the hallway outside of the sleeping areas. Make sure it is installed at least 15 feet away from any fuel-burning appliance and away from any drafts.
How do you maintain a carbon monoxide detector, and ensure it is working properly?
Always ensure nothing is blocking the unit or covering it in any way. Unplug it and vacuum or clean it with a clean dry cloth to make sure no debris or dust accumulates and inhibits its function. Once a week, press the test/reset button to ensure it is working. If your unit has replaceable batteries, change them every 6 months, regardless of whether they need changing. You should also be aware of the unit’s alarm patterns: all beeps require attention, but not all beeps mean CO has been detected. Typically, 1 beep every minute indicates low batteries; 5 every minute means the alarm needs to be completely replaced. 4 beeps and a pause indicate the unit has detected carbon monoxide.
What should I do if the alarm goes off?
Immediately take all your family members, including pets, out of the house and into the fresh air (or at the very least, a well-ventilated area with an open window). If no one is exhibiting symptoms (headache, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, fast heart rate, confusion), call the fire department. If someone is experiencing symptoms, you should call 911 immediately.