Did you know? Local fire departments in the US respond to an estimated 79,600 carbon monoxide incidents, or about nine calls per hour each year. While carbon monoxide (CO) detectors have become more common, many people don't fully understand the dangers of CO poisoning at home.

Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that forms when fuels like gas, wood, oil, and propane don’t burn completely. Any equipment that burns fuel, including heaters and stoves, can release the said gas. Even running a car or generator in an attached garage can produce dangerous CO levels. So, knowing where to place carbon monoxide detectors is a must. Find out more about carbon monoxide detector placement below. 

Carbon Monoxide Detector Placement: Where to Place CO Detectors

Proper carbon monoxide detector placement could mean the difference between life and death. CO detectors alert you to dangerous CO levels in the air, which can be life-threatening if not detected early. Here are some tips on where to place them around your home: 

1. On Every Level 

According to the International Association of Fire Chiefs, you should place at least one carbon monoxide detector on each floor of your home, including the basement and attic. Even if you spend most of your time on one floor, carbon monoxide can build up anywhere in your house. Having detectors on every level makes sure that you’ll be warned no matter where you are.

2. In or Near Bedrooms

Place a carbon monoxide detector inside or near each bedroom for better protection. This is especially important if you have a gas-powered heating system. Since CO is odorless and colorless, you may not wake up if the levels become dangerous. Having a detector in or close to each bedroom gives everyone a better chance of hearing the alarm and getting out safely.

3. Near Attached Garages

Does your house have an attached garage? If yes, place a CO detector near the door that connects the garage to your home. Cars left running in a garage can produce carbon monoxide, which can seep into your living space. Other fuel-powered equipment, such as lawnmowers, generators, and leaf blowers, can also produce CO. 

4. In Areas With Fuel-Burning Appliances

Place a CO detector near a furnace, water heater, or fireplace. A general rule of thumb is to install it within 10 feet of these appliances. While you may be tempted to do this, don’t place your detectors too close to them. Such appliances release small amounts of CO during regular operation, so they could cause false alarms. ‘

Carbon Monoxide Detector Placement Tips

Getting your carbon monoxide detectors in the right spots is key to staying safe. Here are some carbon monoxide detector placement tips to make the most out of your alarms:

Place Them at the Right Height

Install your carbon monoxide detectors at eye level or at least five feet above the ground. Experts also recommend placing them on the wall so they’re easy to read. This position also allows the detector to measure CO levels at a height where people breathe air. Others do it so they’re easier to plug into wall sockets. 

Contrary to popular belief, carbon monoxide is lighter than air, so you don’t have to worry about it rising or falling. Carbon monoxide diffuses evenly, so you don’t have to place it on the ceiling or near the ground. 

Test Your Carbon Monoxide Detector

Test your carbon monoxide detector before permanently installing it. Make sure you can hear the sound from your bedroom and other areas where you’re planning to put them. Move the detector or use a different model if you can't hear the sound. The last thing you want is not hearing the alarm when it goes off.

Check the Manufacturer’s Recommendations

Every unit is different, so check the manual for specific placement recommendations. Different brands or models might have unique installation guidelines, like the distance from fuel-burning appliances or the type of mounting required. 

Carbon Monoxide Detector Placement: Where to Not to Place CO Detectors

Knowing where to put your CO detectors is just as important as knowing where not to place them. Putting them in the wrong spot can trigger false alarms or prevent them from detecting carbon monoxide accurately. Here’s where not to place carbon monoxide detectors: 

1. Too Close to Fuel-Burning Appliances

Avoid placing your CO detector within 10 feet of gas appliances, like a stove, furnace, or fireplace. They release small amounts of CO when they start or work, which can lead to false alarms. You want to be far enough so the detector only senses dangerous levels of CO, not regular emissions.

2. High-Traffic Areas

Don’t place your carbon monoxide detectors where they can be disturbed or knocked down. They should be in a spot where air can circulate, but not too much. Don’t put it behind curtains, furniture, or anything else that could cover its sensor. Keeping it in an open space lets the device detect CO once it becomes a concern.

3. In Humid Areas

Don’t install your CO detectors in bathrooms, saunas, or other areas with high humidity. The moisture in the air can interfere with the detector’s sensors and cause it to malfunction. Place carbon monoxide detectors in dry, well-ventilated areas where they can function properly. 

4. In Direct Sunlight

Putting a CO detector in direct sunlight is not a good idea. Sunlight can cause the detector’s sensors to become less sensitive or wear out faster. Placing it in a shaded area helps it last longer and work better. 

5. Near Areas With Strong Air

Avoid placing your CO detector next to windows, doors, or vents where there’s a lot of air circulation. A strong breeze could carry carbon monoxide away from the detector, preventing it from picking up dangerous gas levels. 

6. In Dead-Air Spaces

Don’t place CO detectors in dead-air spaces, like inside walls or corners where air doesn’t flow freely. Carbon monoxide might not reach the sensor in these areas. As a result, the alarm will miss a dangerous situation. 

What to Do if Your Carbon Monoxide Detector Goes Off

You should act quickly if your carbon monoxide detector goes off. Here's what to do to keep your loved ones safe:

1. Get Fresh Air 

Known as the invisible killer, carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas. You can’t feel or smoke it, but it can quickly become dangerous. When the alarm sounds, leave the building and go to a location with fresh air immediately. If you’re in a multi-story home, go to a balcony or outside for fresh air. Opening the doors and windows also helps. 

2. Make Sure Everyone Is Safe

Do a head count to make sure everyone in your home is accounted for. Check if everyone has made it to safety, including children, the elderly, pets, and anyone who may have been in your house. If you can’t find someone, get help immediately.

3. Call the Authorities

Call the authorities once you’re outside. They have the right equipment and expertise to handle a carbon monoxide emergency. They will also ventilate your house and fix the problem before you return.

4. Do Not Re-Enter

Don’t go back into your home until it has been inspected and cleared by professionals. Carbon monoxide is tricky, so you might not feel the symptoms right away. Let the professionals check the source and fix the issue before re-entering your home. 

5. Identify the Source of the Problem

Ask the authorities where the carbon monoxide is coming from. It's often produced by appliances that burn fuel or a running vehicle. A professional can inspect your home and look for the following potential sources:

• Heating Systems: Heating systems are a common cause of CO leaks. Technicians will check for cracks, rust, or debris in your furnace, venting systems, or flue pipes. They'll also look for issues with the combustion chamber, heat exchangers, and filters.

• Chimneys and Fireplaces: A blocked chimney or fireplace can cause carbon monoxide to enter your home. Professionals will check for any blockages caused by debris or animal nests. They will also look for cracks or holes.

• Appliances: Appliances that burn fuel, such as stoves, water heaters, clothes dryers, and space heaters, have to be properly vented. A malfunction or incorrect installation can cause CO buildup.

• Cars: Never leave your car running in an attached garage, even if the door is open. The fumes can seep into the house and produce dangerous carbon monoxide levels.

Once you’ve identified the source of the problem, take measures to prevent them from producing dangerous carbon monoxide levels. These include regular maintenance, proper venting, and monitoring fuel-burning appliances. 

How to Take Care of Your Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Carbon monoxide detectors keep your home safe. But just like other devices, they need a little TLC to work properly. Here's how to keep your CO detectors in top shape: 

1. Test Your Detectors Regularly

You should test your carbon monoxide detectors at least once a month, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). Doing this lets you know if the alarm is working properly. To do this, simply press the test button and wait for the sound. If your detector doesn’t sound, check if the battery is dead. If the battery is new, call a technician to check it. While this may sound like a hassle, you shouldn’t skip this step. Testing it every month takes a few minutes and can save lives. The peace of mind is definitely worth it.

2. Change the Batteries

Batteries don’t last forever, so you have to make sure yours are working. The US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) says you should change your CO detectors’ batteries at least once a year. The only exception is when your detectors have sealed 10-year batteries. 

If you can’t remember when to change them, do it when you change your clocks for daylight saving time. Some detectors warn you when their batteries are low. When this happens, replace the batteries immediately. 

3. Keep Your Detectors Clean

Dust, dirt, and grime can mess with your detector’s ability to sense carbon monoxide. Clean your detectors at least once every six months. Do this by gently wiping them with a soft, dry cloth. Use a gentle vacuum with a soft brush attachment if they have vents or screens. Don’t use cleaning products because they could damage your detector. If you have pets or live in a dusty area, you might want to clean the detectors more frequently.

4. Replace Them When Needed

Most carbon monoxide detectors have a lifespan of eight to 10 years, but always check the manufacturer’s guidelines for the specifics. Once the CO detector reaches its expiration date, it won’t be as effective. So, you’ll have to replace it. 

Plus, some CO detectors have a built-in expiration alarm that lets you know when it’s time for a replacement. You also shouldn’t just rely on the test button to make sure your detector is functioning properly. Always check its expiration date. If it’s near or past that date, replace it immediately.

The same thing applies when your CO detector is malfunctioning. If the technician can’t fix it, replace it right away. Don’t take chances with your safety. Newer models are more reliable and have more features like digital displays and remote monitoring. Remember, it’s worth investing in a quality detector to protect your family.

Conclusion

Putting your carbon monoxide detectors in the right spots warns you of the silent killer. They should be placed on every floor, near or in bedrooms, in areas with fuel-burning appliances, and near attached garages.

However, CO detectors are just one part of the safety equation.  You also need fire prevention tools like fire detectors, fire blankets, and fire sprays to fully protect your home. Having them gives you the best chance of keeping your loved ones safe from fire and carbon monoxide.