Carbon monoxide alarms are must-have devices in most homes, especially if you’re from the United States; they may even be required by law in your state. This alarm might allow you to prevent a potential tragedy from happening in the case of a carbon monoxide leak, keeping you and your loved ones safe, especially if you consider that this substance is not visible and doesn’t have any odor.
It can be a bit of a hassle to know how to place carbon monoxide alarm. Since it can be a life-saving device, let’s explore some tips you might want to take into account when it comes to knowing where to place your carbon monoxide alarm.
The Optimal Placement of a Carbon Monoxide Alarm
To know where you should place your carbon monoxide alarm, it’s important to first learn about the gas’s properties. Firstly, it is a lot lighter than regular air, meaning that it will rise up relatively faster – especially when there are higher temperatures. Therefore, you should place it on your wall, at eye level or at least five feet above the floor. It should be easy to see and reach, too. The ceiling is also a good placement since it makes it quite noticeable and less disruptive when it comes to your decorative decisions.
It’s highly recommended to keep at least one monoxide alarm on every floor, especially in the areas where people tend to be more frequently, such as the bedrooms or sleeping area (this is the recommended placement if you’re only purchasing one alarm, as it will alert everyone in the house as soon as a potential emergency happens). Some must-places include your garage and the rooms surrounding it.
Considerations to Have when Installing a Carbon Monoxide Alarm
Choose a Strategic Place
The “strategic place” term refers to an area where children or pets cannot reach the alarm and potentially damage it. This is why some people prefer to place it in the ceiling, as it allows the device to work as intended and gives you peace of mind. In addition, it is also not recommended to install the alarm inside the bathrooms, stoves, or any heat source. Windows are also out of the question. Carbon monoxide alarms are quite vulnerable to humidity, meaning that it could cause damage to the sensors.
Hence, generally speaking, some of the places you might want to take into account if you’re installing multiple alarms include the following:
- The Kitchen
- Outside Bedrooms and Bathrooms
- Basements
Consider Purchasing a Smoke/CO Alarm
If you want to make sure that you and your loved ones are safe, it’s also recommended to consider purchasing an alarm that includes smoke and carbon monoxide sensors. This way, you’ll provide your home with extra protection and might be able to kill two birds with one stone.
While the price for these combined devices might be slightly higher, it might still save you money and time in the long run as you won’t have to install separate alarms for both smoke and carbon monoxide – the same object will provide you with the functions you need.
Read below for more information on carbon monoxide alarms and detectors.
Provide Maintenance to your CO Alarm
Once you’ve installed your carbon monoxide detector, the next thing to do is to make sure that it is working as well as possible. The maintenance is as simple as checking the battery levels now and then. Modern devices tend to include an LED that indicates the current battery power. Furthermore, you might need to replace the batteries at least once a year since it will allow you to continue using them for a longer time without worries.
Now, bear in mind that even if you’ve replaced the battery multiple times, the time when you’ll finally have to replace the carbon monoxide alarm you’ve installed will come. The alarm itself will let you know when the time arrives, as it will leave a “chirping” sound alerting you that the device will soon stop working completely. It is recommended to replace your CO alarms at least once every five to seven years.
What Carbon Monoxide Detector Should You Get?
There is a wide range of options when it comes to carbon monoxide detectors, depending on your needs, budget, and what you believe could work best for your current situation. Here are your options:
Dual Detectors
Dual detectors include smoke and CO sensors, alerting you of both mishaps whenever they happen. Therefore, you will be able to add an extra layer of protection to your home when it comes to both fires and gas leaks. These devices tend to work better in homes where space is compromised. They can also be a good option for people who might want to have a harmonious space with less clutter.
Battery-Operated
Battery-operated CO alarms are perhaps the most common type available at the moment. You can install them pretty easily without the need for extra hands, and they tend to do a pretty good job. Since they’re easy to install, you can move them from one place to another whenever you want. These detectors require you to change the batteries at least once a year if you want them to continue working all year long without problems.
Plug-In
The last option is plug-in or hardwired alarms. You can keep them connected to the household current, allowing you to keep them working at all times without worrying about the batteries. It’s a simpler device, and you won’t have to buy a replacement for the batteries, but it can be challenging to find an optimal place, and you might need the help of an electrician to install it. Hence, it can be a hassle for those who don’t want to lose time.
Ceilings or Walls: Where to Install Your CO Detectors
It can be hard to decide whether to install your alarm on the wall or the ceiling. However, it is simpler than you think.
The placement has little influence over the way it works, meaning that it doesn’t matter where you put it, as it will still be able to do its job. If you’re a person who cares deeply about aesthetics, perhaps the ceiling could be a better place since you’ll be able to keep it out of sight. On the other hand, if the alarm needs to be connected to the household current, you may have no other option but to place it on a wall. Either option is great. It all comes down to the availability of your home and your preference.
The Bottom Line
Carbon monoxide alarms are must-have devices that you should be working inside your home all the time. This way, in the case of a potential accident, you might be able to prevent tragedies and make it possible for you to keep yourself and your loved ones safe. There is a plethora of options to choose from, depending on what you might prefer or believe could work better for your home. Be sure to look out for signs of carbon monoxide poisoning if your alarm has gone off – call the emergency services as soon as possible to have the situation sorted out quickly.
