As the temperatures fall and heating systems start running full-time, you might use a fossil-fuel-burning heating system, like a gas furnace or fireplace. These appliances keep you warm and cozy but also contain the potential hidden danger of carbon monoxide poisoning. Installing carbon monoxide detectors in your home is a simple step in protecting your family during the heating season. Here’s a look at why carbon monoxide detectors are so important, how they work, and the steps you can take to maximize safety.
What Is Carbon Monoxide and Why Is It Dangerous?
Carbon monoxide is a byproduct of burning fuels such as natural gas, oil, wood, and charcoal. Some common household appliances can produce dangerous amounts of carbon monoxide if faulty or improperly set up or if ventilation is poor. Because carbon monoxide is odorless and colorless, it’s almost impossible to detect without specialized equipment.
If you inhale this dangerous gas, it binds to hemoglobin in your blood, which reduces how well your body can transport oxygen. When this happens, you can have symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, nausea, confusion, and shortness of breath. Prolonged exposure or high concentrations of carbon monoxide can result in loss of consciousness, brain damage, or even death.
Why Is the Heating Season a High-Risk Period?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that more than 400 Americans die from accidental carbon monoxide poisoning each year. Although gas appliances like gas stoves, water heaters, or dryers can also produce excess carbon monoxide, most incidents occur from late fall through early spring.
The rise in poisonings is because of the use of heating appliances. As more people start to heat their homes, they increase the risk of exposing themselves to malfunctioning or poorly maintained heating systems.
Another cause is that modern energy-efficient homes often have a tight seal to prevent heat loss. This improves energy efficiency but also reduces ventilation and increases the risk of carbon monoxide buildup. Vents, chimneys, and flues can also contribute to the problem if they have blockages.
The Role of Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Carbon monoxide detectors will alert you if there’s a dangerous level of this gas in your home. This gives you and your family time to get out and seek help.
The early warning system is beneficial. These detectors can sense even low levels of carbon monoxide and can sound an alarm before the levels get dangerously high. These detectors continuously monitor the air for carbon monoxide, so you have around-the-clock protection.
Types of Carbon Monoxide Detectors
There are several types of detectors to suit different needs and budgets. You simply have to decide which detector is best for your situation.
A detector that runs on a battery is easy to install and doesn’t need a power source. But you must remember to replace the battery. A plug-in detector goes directly into an electrical outlet but usually has a battery backup in case of a power outage. You can also get a detector that is hardwired directly into your home’s electrical system.
Best Place for Installation
Your detector belongs in a spot where it can provide the best protection. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for mounting height. Some detectors are for wall installation, while others are for ceilings. Follow these five guidelines for optimal safety.
You’ll want to put at least one carbon monoxide detector on each floor of your home. Additionally, each bedroom should have a detector nearby to ensure the alarm will wake you if levels rise while you’re asleep. Also, detectors should be placed near fuel-burning appliances, such as furnaces, water heaters, and fireplaces. However, don’t place them too close, as this could trigger false alarms. Installing them near windows, doors, or vents can also interfere with accurate readings.
Maintenance and Testing
Like any safety device, carbon monoxide detectors require regular maintenance to ensure they work correctly. First Alert recommends testing your detector at least once a month. And if the detector has replaceable batteries, you should change them at least every 6 months.
Even if you regularly replace your batteries, these detectors don’t last forever. They have a lifespan of anywhere between 5 to 10 years. If your detector is at least 10 years old, it’s likely time for a new one.
In addition to changing the batteries, you should also clean your detector. This is because dust and debris can interfere with performance. Gently cleaning your detector with a soft cloth or vacuum attachment is a good idea.
How to Recognize an Emergency
While carbon monoxide detectors are beneficial, they are just one part of your safety strategy. Another recommendation is to teach your family members the signs and symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning. This means if an adult starts to show symptoms and needs help, a younger member of the family can possibly call 911.
The time you can survive after carbon monoxide poisoning depends on the level of the gas in the air, the duration of exposure, and your general health. For example, a generally healthy person might develop a bad headache, fatigue, or dizziness after 1-2 hours of continuous low exposure to the gas. At higher levels, even a few minutes of exposure could put you at serious risk.
Anyone can get carbon monoxide poisoning. But some people are more at-risk than others. People with heart conditions, anemia, or respiratory problems are more vulnerable. An infant, anyone who is pregnant, and the elderly are also more susceptible to harm.
If you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning, treat it as an emergency and act immediately to protect yourself and others. Make sure everyone in your household knows what to do if the alarm sounds. You might want to choose a safe meeting spot outside and practice evacuating your home.
Should I Get Help Installing My Detector?
It’s possible that you can install a battery-operated carbon monoxide detector on your own. However, you should get help from a professional installer if you want a hardwired detector. Hardwired detectors require a connection to your home’s electrical wiring. This often involves handling circuits, installing junction boxes, or connecting to existing systems. The task requires electrical knowledge to ensure safety and compliance with local electrical codes.
It’s also wise to get professional help if you’re adding a carbon monoxide detector to a smart home system. The same is true if you’re integrating the detector with other devices like fire alarms, security systems, or central monitoring services.
When you hire a professional installer, you know you’ll get the correct installation. You’ll also keep yourself from the risk of electrical shock and have compliance with local building codes and standards.
Get in Touch With Dawson's Electric & Air Today
Carbon monoxide is a serious hazard, especially during the heating season when fuel-burning appliances are in constant use. The risk of carbon monoxide poisoning is significantly lower with a detector in your home. That’s why Dawson's Electric & Air and our team of professional electricians and HVAC technicians are ready to install your detector as soon as possible. We can also help in other areas, such as electrical repair, whole home generators, heating and cooling issues, and more.
Contact Dawson's Electric & Air today. We’re ready to make your home safer.
