Carbon Monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas that is produced by burning fossil fuels such as coal, propane, oil, wood, and gasoline. It is a deadly poison that inhaled can cause permanent injury or death. Hundreds of people are treated in emergency rooms each year from accidental CO poisoning. A CO detector can help protect a home from this invisible danger by alerting you when CO levels are unsafe.

Co detector by continuously sampling the air for CO molecules and then an alarm when concentrations reach dangerous levels. They can also be used to monitor the performance of gas-powered appliances such as kitchen gas ranges, furnaces and water heaters.

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The CO detector is usually powered by household current or batteries. Some models have a digital readout that shows the current level of CO in parts per million (ppm). Most detectors sound an alarm when the level reaches 70 ppm or higher. The highest concentrations of CO are generated when an appliance is operating improperly. This is most often caused by an open flame, blocked chimney flue, or poorly maintained and operated appliances.

A carbon monoxide detector should be installed on each floor of the residence and in sleeping areas. In addition to having a properly working CO detector, you should have your heating system, vents, and chimney examined each year by a qualified professional. It is also a good idea to have your generator and charcoal grill inspected on a regular basis.