Carbon monoxide, although a dangerous gas, is difficult for people to detect due to its colorlessness, lack of odor or taste, and initial non-irritating nature. Carbon monoxide results from incomplete combustion due to a lack of oxygen. Carbon monoxide is often created by gasoline powered tools and appliances, such as heaters or cooking apparatus, in both domestic and industrial settings. Find out how to choose the best co2 monitor in this site.
Do I need to install CO detectors? If you follow the steps above, the risk of CO intoxication is greatly reduced. Even if you take every precaution to avoid CO, unanticipated incidents can occur. It is important to have at least 1 CO detector installed in the home. In some areas, it may even be a law.
You may consider it your second line, but it’s still important. Today, it is a must to install one inside. You should install your carbon monoxide sensor away from fuel-burning equipment. This is because the appliances may emit some carbon monoxide at startup.
It is not recommended to place a detector within fifteen feet from heating and cooking equipment or places that are extremely humid, such as bathrooms. If you are deciding where to place a CO detector, keep in mind that, although carbon monoxide has a similar weight to air (0.9657 as per the EPA, and 1 as per the National Resource Council), it can still be present in heated air generated by combustion devices like home heating systems.
The warmer air will cause carbon monoxide to rise. The manufacturer will have different recommendations for installation. According to the results of each manufacturer’s analysis, manufacturers’ recommendations may differ in a certain degree. Before installing any detector, be sure to thoroughly read through the installation instructions. Many CO detectors sound the alarm when levels of CO reach high values in a short period. Health agencies do warn about the dangers of long-term low-level CO exposure, in particular for pregnant and nursing women, children and elderly people, as well as those who have a heart condition or breathing problems.
When buying a CO Detector, you should consider the following: Look for a device that is listed by way of the Canadian Standards Association. Logos from the testing company will likely be found on the merchandise. You should choose a detector that has a built-in memory if you need to keep track of both short and long term exposures. The item standard does not permit manufacturers to display CO at low levels. However, these devices monitor and store this information. The peak level can be seen by pushing a button.