Carbon Monoxide Detectors

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What is Carbon Monoxide?

Carbon Monoxide (CO) is a tasteless, colorless, odorless gas which is the result of incomplete combustion of various fuel products. Typical fuel sources found in and around the home are wood, petroleum products (such as kerosene, fuel oil, gasoline), and cooking/heating gases (propane, natural gas).

When the alarm sounds

The first thing to do when the alarm goes off is to leave the residence, regardless if you have any symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning. Carbon Monoxide (CO) detectors are designed to sound an alarm before symptoms are present. The operation of CO detectors takes into account the current CO level and the time that level has been present. After you have safely exited the residence, call 911 and emergency responders will come to your residence and assess the situation

Detector Maintenance

Just as smoke alarms require monthly checks, carbon monoxide detectors need to be checked and have regular battery changes
Some CO detectors have a sensor module that may need to be replaced regularly also. The best source of information on what needs to be done and when is the owners manual.

Detector Replacement

Again, the best source of information for your particular detector will be the owners manual. Some detectors are rated to last 2 years, and others are guaranteed for 5 years.