Carbon monoxide alarms
A carbon monoxide alarm can provide extra protection between maintenance visits — but they are NOT a substitute for regular inspection and maintenance. And, they are not a substitute for smoke alarms.
Carbon monoxide alarms are good as an extra source of warning — something as simple as a chimney blocked by a bird or squirrel nest can cause problems that may go undetected between inspections.
Buying tips
- Buy an alarm certified to the latest Canadian Standards Association (CSA) requirements. Carbon monoxide alarms that comply with the latest requirements will be labelled CSA 6.19 2001. Units tested and certified by CSA will display the CSA (blue flame) logo.
- Look for a battery operated unit or a 110-volt plug-in model with a battery backup in case the power fails. Note that the battery backup feature of 110-volt models may only operate for a few hours after the power fails.
- Look for a model that clearly lists the replacement date and warranty period.
- Peak-level display and hours-since-peak features can help you investigate CO problems — they show the highest level of carbon monoxide reached, as well as how long ago the reading occurred.
Installation tips
- The best place to install carbon monoxide detectors is in the hallway outside your bedrooms (on each level if you have more than one floor).
- Don't install a carbon monoxide alarm in or near an attached garage or carport or near the door leading into the house from the garage or carport.
- Don't install a carbon monoxide alarm in your furnace room, kitchen or within 15 feet of any fuel-burning appliance.
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