Time to change my Carbon Monoxide Detector?

Guy Robert

I've had the same CO detector in my home for many years now, perhaps more than 7 years. The lights work (both POWER and CAUTION) and every time I press the TEST button it lets out the loud beep that it should when CO is in the air. My concern, however, is whether or not the detector is still as functional as it was when it was purchased.
Granted, I've been using the same smoke detector for 20 years and it seems to work A-OK, but are CO detectors any different?

Answer
There is a certain life expectancy in smoke and CO detectors. I read in a technical bulletin they last about 7 years. Reason is, sensitivity parameters change through the years. Put your mind at ease and install new units, also change batteries when we set our clocks ahead and back. (Easy to remember)

My CO alarm went off. will it go off again after resetting it?

stax

i aired the house out an d reset the alarm. it has not gone off again. will it go off again i8f the CO level gets too high?

Answer
CO detectors usually have a five year life expectancy. Over time they can become less accurate and affected by temperature and humidity swings. Even low levels of carbon monoxide can be dangerous for your family so don't take the alarm lightly. Take the time to find out why the alarm went off and have the issue resolved. Detectors usually trigger above 70 parts per million after 15 minutes. Once the concentration of CO goes down, the alarm will reset and monitor the air for future conditions.

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