Installing a Carbon Monoxide Detector

All homes should have at least one carbon monoxide detector.

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a deadly, colorless and odorless gas. In homes, CO is produced from the incomplete burning of fuels such as wood, natural gas and kerosene as they are used in fireplaces, wood stoves, furnaces, space heaters and stoves. A carbon monoxide detector can alert homeowners to the presence of dangerous levels of the gas. CO detectors resemble smoke detectors and the installation process is similar. All homes should have at least one CO detector.

Things You'll Need

• Drill
• Screwdriver
• Hammer
• Pencil
• Tape measure
• Ladder

Instructions

Instructions

1. Determine the best location for the carbon monoxide (CO) detector. If only one CO detector will be installed in a home, the Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends it be located near the sleeping area.

2. Read the instructions and install a battery specified by the manufacturer.

3. Sketch a paper template by measuring the distance between the screw holes on the detector or mounting bracket.

4. Climb the ladder in the desired location and use the paper template and a pencil to mark small points on the ceiling, indicating the location of the pilot holes.

5. Drill the pilot holes on the pencil marks. Be sure to use a drill bit that is smaller than the diameter of the screw or drywall anchor.

6. Gently drive drywall anchors into the pilot holes with a hammer, if the pilot holes are not drilled into studs.

7. Align the screw holes in the carbon monoxide detector with the drilled pilot holes. Screw the detector to the ceiling or wall.

8. Test the carbon monoxide detector with the test button to ensure proper operation.

Tips & Warnings

• Replace the battery at least once a year.

• Mounting a CO detector on the ceiling is usually preferred over wall mounts.

• For additional protection, install CO detectors on every level and in every bedroom of the home.

• Carbon monoxide detectors should be placed at least 15 feet away from heating and cooking appliances. Do not install detectors in humid areas, such as bathrooms.

• Use caution when drilling into walls or ceilings to avoid hitting pipes or electrical wires.

• Do not install carbon monoxide detectors directly above or near fuel-burning appliances. These appliances may normally emit a small amount of carbon monoxide during start-up, resulting in false alarms.

References

• U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission: Carbon Monoxide Questions and Answers

Resources

• U.S. Fire Administration: Exposing an Invisible Killer: The Dangers of Carbon Monoxide