Carbon monoxide is an odorless and colorless gas that mixes with air and remains undetectable. It is a natural product of combustion from natural gas and other flammable sources. In your home, carbon monoxide may be released from a gas stove, the furnace or a water heater.

A simple carbon monoxide detector installed in your Wichita home can prevent illness or tragedy from this toxic gas.

Placement

A battery-powered or plug-in detector can alert you to the presence of carbon monoxide with a constant shrill alarm. It is recommended that a detector be installed on each floor of your home and within 15 feet of every bedroom. The number and location of bedrooms and levels will determine how many detectors you need. Also, heating appliances should be in well ventilated areas, and you should check them regularly to make sure they are working properly.

Replacement

All carbon monoxide detectors should be tested at least one time per month. It’s important to install fresh batteries twice a year, and remember that even electrically powered detectors should have batteries for emergency backup. Home experts suggest replacing carbon monoxide detectors every five to seven years. Make sure the detector you choose has a fuel cell electrochemical sensor and a peak level memory system.

Symptoms to alert you to carbon monoxide poisoning include nausea, headache and fatigue. Comfort Systems of Wichita is the homeowner’s answer to a comfortable and safe environment. Contact us, and we can provide you with all the information you need in regard to the placement of carbon monoxide detectors. We’re here to help you and the ones you love stay safe and sleep sound.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Wichita, Kansas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  For more information about carbon monoxide detectors and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.

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