How to Clean Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Carbon monoxide detectors are devices that detects the presence of the carbon monoxide (CO) in order to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide detectors can be either battery operated or plug-in style. Many people have these in their homes but rarely give any thought to properly maintaining them.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. 
    
   Detector

   Routine Testing. Test your Carbon monoxide detectors at least monthly to ensure they are still functioning properly. Most have a built-in test button that sounds when press to indicate the unit is functioning. In battery operated units, the batteries should be replaced annually whether the unit tests ok or not.

2. Cleaning. Clean you detector on a quarterly basis. Open it up and vacuum, or brush out, any dust, debris or insects. Canned air will help to get into the smaller areas. Remove grim from the outside with a damp cloth and some cleaning solution. Don't get any cleaners on the electrical components of the detector as it may damage the unit.

3. Replacing. Carbon monoxide detectors have a fairly short life span. Most manufactures recommend replacing them about every five years. So as a reminder, make sure you annotate the install date somewhere on the detector so you'll know when to replace it.

[kittykat3]

on 6/6/2009 Great tips on how to clean carbon monoxide detectors. 5* and recommended.

[jenng]

on 5/24/2009 Wow I have never thought of cleaning my carbon monoxide detectors 5*