Carbon Monoxide Monitors

Choosing the right carbon monoxide monitor

The following information is important when choosing the right carbon monoxide monitor.

• It should be easy to install
• It should have all the features that are needed such as low level warning, battery back up, and digital display.
• Make sure the detector has been properly tested.
• Compare prices of different brands of carbon monoxide monitors.

How do carbon monoxide monitors work?

Carbon monoxide monitors trigger an alarm based on an amount of carbon monoxide over time. Carbon monoxide can harm you if you are exposed to high levels of carbon monoxide in a short period of time, or to lower levels of carbon monoxide over a long period of time. Carbon monoxide monitors require a continuous power supply, so if the power cuts off then the alarm becomes ineffective.

Where should I place a carbon monoxide monitor?

Because carbon monoxide is slightly lighter than air and also because it may be found with warm, rising air, monitors should be placed on a wall about five feet above the floor. The monitor may be placed on the ceiling. Do not place the monitor right next to or over a fireplace or flame-producing appliance. Keep the monitor out of the way of pets and children. Each floor needs a separate monitor. If you getting a single carbon monoxide monitor, place it near the sleeping area and make sure the alarm is loud enough to wake you up.