Carbon Monoxide Detectors Save Lives
As of April 1, 2018, Maryland law was changed to require that carbon monoxide detectors be installed on each level of a rental property. They are also required to be placed outside the sleeping area. These detectors may be combined with a smoke detector. This is one of the responsibilities that landlords have with their properties.
Here’s everything you need to know about the signs and causes of a carbon monoxide leak and how to protect the home. Carbon monoxide is a deadly gas that is produced when fossil fuels are burned. It is colorless, odorless, and silent. That makes it virtually impossible to detect until it is too late. Carbon monoxide poisoning is totally preventable with the proper use of these detectors.
Changing the batteries twice a year and installing them so they’ll wake people when they are sleeping can protect residents from carbon monoxide poisoning. Some carbon monoxide detectors come with a digital readout that will show the highest level of carbon monoxide in the home in addition to sounding the alarm.
Everyone should know what causes carbon monoxide in and around a home. There are several common culprits and anything that burns fossil fuels is a potential danger. This includes (but is not limited to) cars, trucks, gas furnaces, gas stoves, gas ranges, small engines, generators, grills, lanterns, and wood burning and gas burning fireplaces. Improper use or maintenance of these devices can cause carbon monoxide to build up to deadly levels in your home. First of all, things like generators, small engines, grills and lanterns should never be used inside the home or garage.
CO detectors measure the concentration of carbon monoxide in the air. It will trigger an alarm if the level is high enough. There are several different kinds of carbon monoxide sensors. They include biometric gel, metal oxide semiconductor, and electrochemical.
Whichever kind of carbon monoxide detector is installed in the home, be sure to put it where the alarm will be heard while people are sleeping. A good carbon monoxide detector will detect even low levels of carbon monoxide over time, in addition to detecting sudden spikes, This could indicate a slow leak of the gas somewhere in the home.
According to the EPA, every floor of the home, including the basement, should have a carbon monoxide detector. Be sure to place one within 10 feet of every separate sleeping area in the home. This is so it will wake up everyone who may be asleep when it sounds. There should also be one within 20 feet of any attached garage, furnace, water heater and fireplace. Wherever you place your carbon monoxide detectors, be sure the areas are free from obstructions and protected from adverse environmental conditions.