Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that is poisonous to humans. Carbon monoxide is produced by the burning of fuels including wood, propane, kerosene, coal and natural gas. Carbon monoxide can also be emitted by equipment like cars or malfunctioning fuel-burning appliances.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, thousands of people are treated for carbon monoxide poisoning every year. It can be difficult to tell if you are suffering from carbon monoxide poisoning because at low levels, it resembles the flu with symptoms like nausea, dizziness, shortness of breath, headache and fatigue. At higher levels, symptoms become progressively worse, leading to loss of consciousness and even death.
Carbon monoxide alarms are an effective way of protecting you and your family from poisoning and potential tragedy. There are many options available for consumer carbon monoxide detectors. These alarms are designed to alert you before life-threatening carbon monoxide levels are reached.
Where should you place your home’s carbon monoxide detectors? Here are a few tips:
- Place detectors on every level of your home including attached garages and basements.
- Place detectors within 10-15 feet of all bedrooms.
- Place detectors on wall or ceiling per manufacturer’s instructions.
- Do not put detectors near any furnace, fuel-burning heat source or bathroom.
- Do not install in direct sunlight, in areas subject to temperature extremes or where they might be obstructed by furniture or draperies.
- Detectors may not function as intended if installed near heat vents, air conditioners, ceiling fans or fresh air returns.
- Always check manufacturer’s recommendations for installation, testing and replacement information.
For more information on where to install your carbon monoxide detectors, contact Aladdin Heating & Coolingtoday. We have proudly served residents in southeast Michigan since 1945, and we will answer any air quality questions you may have.
Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about carbon monoxide detectors and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
Aladding Heating & Cooling services the Detroit, Michigan and the surrounding areas. Visit our website to see our special offers and get started today!