What does a carbon monoxide detector do?
Carbon monoxide detector
Let's start at the source. What is Carbon Monoxide? Carbon monoxide (CO) is known as the "silent killer" because it is a colorless, odorless, tasteless gas that is toxic to humans. Carbon monoxide detectors are safety devices that alert homeowners to carbon monoxide leaks and help them escape potentially life-threatening situations, such as carbon monoxide poisoning.
What does a carbon monoxide detector do?
Carbon monoxide alarms detect toxic gases and help provide early warning. In the event of a carbon monoxide leak, it is vital to get fresh air as soon as possible. When every second counts, First Alert CO detectors can help you and your family provide the necessary early warning to flee your home in an emergency.
What are the main sources of carbon monoxide in the home?
Carbon monoxide can be produced by any fuel burning device. The three main sources are your home's furnace, the dryer vent in your dryer, and your fireplace or chimney. It is important to have these appliances serviced and cleaned regularly by professionals to help prevent carbon monoxide leaks that can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning.
Where should you install carbon monoxide detectors
It is important to install carbon monoxide alarms on every level of the home so that all family members can hear the detectors and be alerted to an emergency. You should also install CO detectors in every bedroom, outside every sleeping area, and in common rooms to provide extra security while you and your family sleep.
Where should carbon monoxide detectors be placed in every room?
Carbon monoxide detectors can be placed anywhere in the room. Contrary to popular belief that carbon monoxide is heavier than air, carbon monoxide alarms can be placed on a wall or ceiling and they are just as effective.
Why is my carbon monoxide detector beeping?
The alarm has different beep patterns to communicate if an emergency exists or if the detector simply needs to be replaced. Knowing the difference between beeps or beeps is important. See the owner's manual for your specific model of alarm clock.
4 beeps and a pause: This means there is carbon monoxide in the air, you should seek fresh air immediately and call 9-1-1.
1 beep per minute: This means the detector battery is low and you should replace the battery.
5 beeps per minute: This means your alarm has reached the end of its life and needs to be replaced with a new carbon monoxide alarm.
How to test your carbon monoxide detectors to make sure they are working properly?
It is very important to test your sensors monthly to ensure they are working properly. To test your carbon monoxide alarm, press and hold the test button on the alarm. The detector will beep 4 times, pause, then beep 4 times for 5-6 seconds. See the owner's manual for your specific model. If the alarm does not test properly, install new batteries, make sure the batteries are installed correctly, make sure the alarm is clean, and test the detector again. If it still does not test correctly, replace the CO detector immediately.
How often should a carbon monoxide detector be replaced?
If your carbon monoxide detector has a replaceable battery, it should be replaced at least every 6 months. Although you change the batteries, carbon monoxide alarms don't last forever. They have a lifespan of 5 to 7 years, but be sure to refer to your owner's manual. After 5 to 7 years, completely replace the carbon monoxide alarm.
