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Why is my carbon monoxide detector going off intermittently?
My carbon monoxide detector keeps going off intermittently, seemingly for no reason. What could the problem be?
Several things could make a carbon monoxide detector go off without good reason. To keep your carbon monoxide detector from going off intermittently, make sure it’s clean, has fresh batteries, and is in an ideal location in your home.
If what you’re describing is occasional chirping, you may need to clean it or replace the batteries. If you’ve done this and it’s still giving you false alarms, it may be time to replace it.
Should you mean the detector is sounding off full-blown false alarms, these are a few factors that could be contributing:
- Exposure to excess moisture or smoke
- Old age
- Location (should be in clean, smoke-free, non-humid areas out of direct sunlight)
- Time to replace batteries
To reduce false alarms:
- Test and clean your carbon monoxide detector monthly
- If battery-powered, replace batteries twice a year
- Replace the detector if excess dirt and grime can’t be cleaned or if it’s otherwise faulty
Please remember that carbon monoxide exposure can be fatal, so if you’re unsure if it’s a false alarm, you should still evacuate your home and call 911.
Your carbon monoxide detector is vital for keeping your household safe, and so is being covered by the right insurance policy. Jerry can help you find and compare quotes for homeowners, renters, and car insurance policies from top providers, including Progressive and Travelers.
You can explore bundling options for further savings, and if you find the policy for you, Jerry can help you handle phone calls and paperwork as you make your switch.
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When a carbon monoxide detector sensor goes off, it can be scary. Carbon monoxide is a colorless and odorless threat to you and your family’s health. Found in fuel-burning engines and several appliances, carbon monoxide can become a silent killer if not detected early enough. In this blog, we’re going to discuss what to do when a carbon monoxide detector goes off.
First, let’s discuss what carbon monoxide is. Carbon Monoxide is a lethal odorless, tasteless, and colorless gas. Often mixed with other gases to make it detectable to the senses, carbon monoxide can be extremely harmful when ingested. Carbon Monoxide is the result of natural gases being partially burned. Fuels that are capable of releasing carbon monoxide include oil, gasoline, kerosene, propane, coal, and even wood. Carbon monoxide poisoning symptoms include headache, dizziness, shortness of breath, confusion, vomiting, and nausea.
What to do when a carbon monoxide detector goes off
A carbon monoxide alarm should never be ignored. If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of CO poisoning, you should evacuate immediately and call 911. If there are no noticeable symptoms, we highly recommend still staying in a hotel for the night and having the fire department or a qualified technician inspect the senor or possible sources of carbon monoxide. If leaving the home is not an option, make sure to open all windows and doors and take time to ensure all sources of carbon monoxide are turned off. After a carbon monoxide detector goes off once, there are a few possible reasons, but you should always take protective measures and contact local professionals.
Learn More: THE 4 TYPES OF HEAT AND SMOKE DETECTORS
FAQ
Can a carbon monoxide detector go off for no reason?
In most cases, no. There is typically a reason why the CO alarm is sounding, whether it detects carbon monoxide in the air or is low on battery. Most CO detectors beep every 30 seconds if the battery is low. In rare cases, the carbon monoxide detector may be malfunctioning, but this should be determined by a licensed professional.
How do I know if my CO detector is working?
You may be wondering how to test your carbon monoxide detector. Every CO detector is different but typically there is some sort of “test” button allowing you to see if the alarm is in working order. Consult a user manual or call a Houston alarm expert if you have any questions or concerns.
Do I need a carbon monoxide detector?
Absolutely. Even if you do not have any known sources of carbon monoxide in your home, you are still in danger of unexpected circumstances and an alarm will notify you and your family when it matters most. We highly recommend having a trained professional come out to your home to determine the best places to have a carbon monoxide detector.
At Mesa Alarm Systems, our team of security professionals is capable of providing your family with the expertise and technology you need to keep your family safe from carbon monoxide. Have peace of mind we’ll use industry best practices to evaluate your home and install detectors where they’re needed most. Don’t second guess the safety of your family; call (281) 694-4313 to talk to a Mesa representative today!