How Many Carbon Monoxide Detectors Do You Need?
It’s pretty much second nature to install smoke alarms in your home. After all, we know that these crucial devices can help us detect the presence of smoke, which can help protect our homes and prevent severe fire-related injuries. However, it’s vital to recognize that smoke detectors aren’t the only sensors that you should install in your living spaces.
Carbon monoxide detectors are just as necessary, as they allow you to know if concerningly high levels of CO are present inside your home. So, how many carbon monoxide detectors do you need? Let’s answer this question and more below.
Why Do You Need a Carbon Monoxide Detector?
Although you might want to know how many carbon monoxide detectors should be in a home, you should first understand why these devices are so important. While smoke detectors are used to identify the presence of smoke and can help you avoid a significant home fire, carbon monoxide detectors work much differently.
Since carbon monoxide is known for being an odorless and colorless gas, it’s practically impossible to identify without installing detectors. In fact, it’s often called the silent killer. That’s why it’s important to have detectors to help you avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Of course, it’s always best to have your smoke and CO detectors in Eugene, OR, installed properly by a professional. This way, you can be assured that they are working correctly and will work when needed.
Consider using this guide to find out why carbon monoxide detectors are so important:
How Many Carbon Monoxide Detectors Should Be in a Home?
As you can see, carbon monoxide detectors are integral parts of any residence, as they can help you avoid a dangerous situation and provide an extra layer of home security. However, this does not mean you should only have one of these devices installed in your home. There are guidelines you will need to follow to ensure that your home is thoroughly covered and sufficiently protected.
How many carbon monoxide detectors do you need? Well, the answer to this specific question can vary depending on the size of your home.
General Rule of Thumb
It’s no secret that having carbon monoxide detectors in your home is a good thing. Nonetheless, it’s vital to know that the location and quantity of these devices can impact their performance and effectiveness. So, how many carbon monoxide detectors do you need, exactly?
When it comes down to it, the number of sleeping areas and floors will impact how many carbon monoxide detectors should be in a home. For example, you will need to install carbon monoxide detectors on each level of the home.
The National Fire Protection Association has also said that these alarms should be placed according to the instructions that come with the device, which usually happens to be walls and ceilings. Also, the Consumer Product Safety Commission has recommended that these alarms be installed close to sleeping areas, where they have a high likelihood of being heard during the night.
All-in-all, CO alarms should be installed on every level of your home, including an attached garage if you have one. However, this isn’t where the requirements stop. The placement of carbon monoxide alarms should also be given a great deal of thought and attention. For instance, you shouldn’t install these devices near windows and doors, as the fresh air can make it difficult for the alarm to detect the presence of CO.
Best Practices
As demonstrated, several factors can influence how many carbon monoxide detectors should be in a home. It’s also critical to think about the amount of gas-powered appliances you currently have. Overall, it’s best to install a carbon monoxide alarm for every gas-powered appliance that’s currently installed in your home.
You should avoid installing carbon monoxide detectors less than ten feet away from fuel-burning appliances, whether that’s a gas-powered water heater or heating system. This way, you can avoid false alarms.
Keep Your Home Safe With Reynolds Electric & Plumbing
“How many carbon monoxide detectors do you need?” Hopefully, if someone asks you this question in the future, you now know what to tell them. It’s easy to see why these alarms are so essential to the safety and overall protection of your household. When you need help installing smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, don’t wait to call the professionals at Reynolds Electric & Plumbing!
Our residential electricians in Eugene, OR, are here to help with all of your needs, including CO detectors. Contact us today to request our services!