Everything You Need to Know About Carbon Monoxide Detectors
What is a Carbon Monoxide Detector?
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas or liquid that is poisonous to humans. Detectors are designed to identify carbon monoxide leaks and warn those in your home or business. This advanced warning can save lives as it allows you to get outside as fast as possible before being affected by the noxious gas.
The most common sources of carbon monoxide in a home are the furnace, dryer, and chimney. A broken or clogged vent can lead to a leak that can quickly turn into a preventable home emergency. In the workplace, the gas is typically caused by ovens, furnaces or even internal combustion engines.
A carbon monoxide detector determines the parts per million (ppm) of carbon monoxide in the air. Carbon monoxide is dangerous to humans after extended exposure of 150 to 200 ppm.
Carbon Monoxide Detector Placement
Carbon monoxide detectors, similar to smoke detectors, should be placed on every level of your home, as well as in every bedroom, sleeping area, and common rooms. It is best to place the detector about five feet from the ground. Any detectors used in sleeping areas should be set to an alarm level that will wake you up.
Avoid placing a detector above a fireplace or other flame-creating appliances.
How to Test
Test your detector’s batteries each month and replace the batteries every six months or as directed by the device’s manual.
Beeping
Beeping can signal an issue, but it is essential to know your alarm setting to be able to distinguish a low battery beep from a life-saving alert.
In Case of a Carbon Monoxide Leak
If your carbon monoxide detector alerts you to a dangerous level of CO in the air, you need to leave the building immediately and make sure to evacuate any children or animals. Once safely outside, call 911.
When to Replace
Carbon monoxide detectors, like fire alarms, have an expiration date. These devices can become less sensitive over time and should be replaced every five to seven years.
If you are looking to install or replace your carbon monoxide detectors, contact the fire and security experts at FSS Technologies. We can help you install and test your detectors or talk to you about the elements of a fire alarm system.
Explore Our Other Blogs
Why Are Fire Hydrants Different Colors?
The eye-catching colors of a fire hydrant are hard to miss, whether you’re walking through a city or driving around a neighborhood. What many don’t realize, however, is that these colors are integral in helping emergency responders identify and assess their available resources when preparing to fight a fire. Fire hydrant colors are distinct to…
Wired vs. Wireless Security Cameras
Wired or Wireless? When we talk about wired versus wireless in-home security, it has little to do with whether a piece of equipment has physical wires attached to it. The terms wired and wireless refer to the communication signal that is transmitted from one piece of security equipment to another. For a security system to…
What Is CCTV Footage?
CCTV stands for closed-circuit television, in which video cameras transmit a signal to a specific, limited set of monitors. Wired and wireless cameras in a CCTV system are usually used for surveillance and security purposes. The footage can help prevent crime, aid in the capture of a suspect if an offense occurs, or serve as…
Why Fire Alarm Monitoring is Essential for Your Business
We’ve talked about the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) in previous blogs and how it is essential to understand and obey their standards when installing, testing, and maintaining fire alarm systems. Fire Alarm Monitoring is the Law Your business might need to include monitoring as part of its fire safety system due to NFPA 101® . NFPA…
What Causes False Alarms on Home Security Systems
False alarms on home security systems are not only an annoyance for homeowners, but they take up the valuable time and resources of our local law enforcement officials. In fact, many cities and towns now charge homeowners a fee for false alarms. In order to save you the frustration and potential financial hit, let’s look…
5 Reasons Why You Need a Home Security System
A home security system protects your home and the ones you love. While there are many reasons you may need to invest in a home security system, we have highlighted some key ones: 1. Peace of Mind Have you heard a noise in the night and ever wondered what made the noise? A home security…
What is Video Alarm Verification?
Video alarm verification is a tried-and-true technology that is an underused component in residential and commercial security systems. Video alarm verification adds an extra element to your overall security by partnering your security system with an alarm monitoring center. When an alarm is triggered, video alarm verification allows monitoring center employees to view the situation…
Has My Home Security System Been Hacked?
With more DIY security systems than ever available with the touch of a button, families around the world are choosing to protect their homes with easy to install cameras and alarms. The expert team at FSS Technologies aims to help homeowners make the right choice for their families when selecting a home security system. A…
Livly: A Modern Residential Community Experience
The Livly property and tenant management system is one of the most cutting-edge and all-inclusive apartment app experiences available today. The system offers low-cost technology and fully integrated experiences that pair well with a variety of existing property management systems. As a proud partner with Livly, FSS Technologies offers this trusted technology solution for both…
Ring Doorbell Cons
Video doorbells are a great addition to home security, and Ring is the popular choice for many who prefer wireless security. Although there are some pros to the Ring Doorbell, it has some cons you should be aware of before purchasing from Ring. Monthly Fee for Storage The cheapest Ring doorbell is $59.99, with the…