Knowing about the potential dangers, and causes of carbon monoxide poisoning is not enough. As a responsible homeowner, you need to take the next step and invest in an effective means of protecting yourself and family against this silent killer. This requires the purchase, and proper installation of a carbon monoxide alarm. There are numerous models on the market right now, all with different price points, features and sensor technology. We have narrowed it down to the models that we feel will give you the most bang for your buck. This site is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Carbon Monoxide Detector Buying Guide
Carbon monoxide is a clear, odorless and tasteless gas that is produced whenever a fuel like gasoline, wood, kerosene, natural gas, oil or propane are is incompletely burned. At high levels, carbon monoxide can strike suddenly, causing poisoning that results in headache, fatigue, dizziness, nausea, weakness and even death.
It’s Many Sources
Although consumers most commonly associate the production of carbon monoxide with cars and home heating systems, including fireplaces, other common tools and appliances, including portable generators, power washers, water heaters, stoves and individual room heaters can also produce the gas. Because it cannot be seen, smelled or tasted, carbon monoxide poisoning can easily go undetected. Fortunately, carbon monoxide detectors are readily available and relatively simple and inexpensive tools to determine if carbon monoxide is present in your home.
Carbon monoxide detectors are designed to sense the presence of the deadly gas and to emit an alarm to warn of the gas’ presence, usually long before any symptoms are felt. Most experts and government safety and health agencies recommend installing a carbon monoxide detector in all sleeping areas and on every level of your home. But how do you select the detectors that are best for your needs? Here are a few tips:
The Different Types Available
First, look for a detector with an electromechanical sensor. These detectors remain stable during changes in temperature and humidity, and they also are less likely to emit false alarms that can occur with other types of detectors when certain household chemicals are used.
Next, consider whether you want your alarm to be battery operated or hard-wired. Although battery-operated units are easier to install and portable, meaning they can be taken with you when you move or moved into different areas of the home as needed, hard-wired models that draw their power directly from your electrical supply do not need to have batteries replaced.
Even if you opt for a hard-wired detector, consider purchasing battery-powered backups in case of power outages. Newer plug-in units with battery backup are also available, allowing you to use your home’s electrical power for normal usage, but offering battery power if electrical service is interrupted.
Back-lit Digital Displays
Look for a back-lit digital display that can be clearly read and that updates carbon monoxide readings frequently. You may also want to consider a unit that employs a memory feature to record and save the highest level of carbon monoxide that is read in the area.
In addition to the traditional alarm sound, some carbon monoxide detectors also include voice warnings which clearly and loudly announce the presence of dangerous levels of carbon monoxide, allowing you to differentiate between your carbon monoxide alarm and your smoke detector alarms.
Where to Install
Once you select your detectors, it’s time to install them. As mentioned earlier, experts recommend installing an alarm on every level of the home and in each room where someone will be sleeping. In addition, place your detectors at least 15 feet from any heaters or stoves to prevent the detector from emitting false alarms. Make sure the unit is not obstructed and that airflow around the unit is unimpeded. Test your carbon monoxide detectors every month and replace them every seven years to ensure your units are employing the most up-to-date and sensitive technology.
Installing carbon monoxide detectors in your home and ensuring they continue to work properly throughout their lifetime is an important and essential step toward keeping your family safe and healthy. Using these simple steps will help you identify the carbon monoxide detectors that are best for your home and family needs to ensure you make the best purchase you can. Read More https://homesafetydot.com/fire-safety/carbon-monoxide-detector/