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Carbon monoxide detector attached to wall of home
January 08, 2024

Where To Place Carbon Monoxide Detectors In Your Springfield Home

Homeowners must protect against a variety of risks like fire, burglary, and flooding. But what about something that you aren’t able to smell or see? Carbon monoxide is different from other dangers as you may never know it’s there. Nevertheless, using CO detectors can simply protect you and your household. Find out more about this potentially lethal gas and where to place carbon monoxide detectors in your Springfield property.

What Is Carbon Monoxide?

Called the silent killer as of a result of its lack of odor, taste, or color, carbon monoxide is a common gas caused by the incomplete combustion of fuels. Any fuel-utilizing appliance like an oven or fireplace can create carbon monoxide. Even though you normally won’t have any trouble, issues can present when equipment is not routinely maintained or properly vented. These missteps can lead to a proliferation of the potentially lethal gas in your home. Heating appliances and generators are the most consistent reasons for CO poisoning.

When subjected to low levels of CO, you might notice fatigue, headaches, dizziness nausea, or vomiting. Continuous exposure to high levels may result in cardiorespiratory arrest, and even death.

Suggestions On Where To Place Springfield Carbon Monoxide Detectors

If your home is without a carbon monoxide detector, purchase one today. Preferably, you ought to have one on every floor, and that includes basements. Here are some recommendations on where to place carbon monoxide detectors in Springfield:

  • Put them on each floor, specifically in areas where you use fuel-burning appliances, including furnaces, gas dryers, fireplaces, and water heaters.
  • Always use one no more than 10 feet away from bedrooms. If you only install one carbon monoxide detector, this is where to put it.
  • Place them at least 10 to 20 feet away from potential CO sources.
  • Do not position them directly above or next to fuel-burning appliances, as a bit of carbon monoxide could be discharged when they kick on and prompt a false alarm.
  • Attach them to walls approximately five feet off the floor so they will test air where inhabitants are breathing it.
  • Avoid using them beside doors or windows and in dead-air areas.
  • Place one in areas above garages.

Inspect your CO detectors often and maintain them according to manufacturer recommendations. You will generally have to replace units every five to six years. You should also make certain any fuel-consuming appliances are in in proper working order and have proper ventilation.