SimpliSafe has announced the launch of its smoke and carbon monoxide alarm listener in the United States.
Where to Install a Carbon Monoxide Detector in Your Home
Carbon monoxide (CO) is often called the ‘silent killer’ because it is an invisible, odourless gas that can be deadly.
CO poisoning causes dozens of accidental deaths each year and many more illnesses.
The best protection against this danger is a carbon monoxide detector.
A carbon monoxide detector is a small alarm device that can alert you to CO gas in the air before it harms you.
However, installing the detector in the right place is crucial.
What is a Carbon Monoxide Detector?
A carbon monoxide detector (also known as a CO alarm) is a safety device designed to detect the presence of carbon monoxide gas.
It serves a similar role to smoke detectors, but instead of sensing smoke, it monitors for carbon monoxide.
Because carbon monoxide is impossible for us to detect on our own, a detector is often the only way to know if this gas is building up in your home.
Carbon monoxide detectors are typically small, battery-powered or mains-powered units that can be mounted on a wall or ceiling.
They continuously sample the air for CO.
If the device senses a dangerous concentration of carbon monoxide, it will emit a loud, high-pitched alarm to warn everyone in the vicinity.
Many modern CO alarms also have test buttons and indicator lights, and some models include digital displays to show CO levels.
Basically, a carbon monoxide detector acts as an early warning system .
It will alert you as soon as CO is present at hazardous levels, giving you time to ventilate the area or evacuate.
By installing CO detectors in your home, you can be warned of a carbon monoxide leak before it reaches life-threatening levels.
Where to Install a Carbon Monoxide Detector in Your Home
Knowing where to install your carbon monoxide detectors is just as important as having them.
To provide effective protection, detectors should be placed in locations where they can detect CO quickly and alert people throughout the home.
The general rule is to install CO alarms near any potential source of carbon monoxide, and near areas where people sleep.
This ensures that if a dangerous CO leak occurs, the alarm will pick it up early and wake you up if you’re sleeping.
Here are some guidelines for positioning CO detectors in your home:
In Rooms With Fuel-burning Appliances
Place a detector in each room that contains a potential CO source, such as a gas boiler, gas fire, wood-burning stove, or gas cooker.
For example, if you have a gas boiler in the kitchen or a fireplace in the living room, install a CO alarm in those rooms.
It should be installed at a distance of 1–3 metres from the appliance, if possible, rather than right next to it.
This distance helps the detector sample the air in the room effectively without being immediately exposed to small transient puffs of exhaust from the appliance.
Avoid placing it directly above a cooking appliance or fire, to prevent false alarms from normal fumes or steam.
Near Bedrooms and Living Areas
It’s crucial to have a carbon monoxide detector where it can be heard if you are sleeping.
CO alarms should be located close to where you sleep.
This includes in each bedroom or in the hallway just outside sleeping areas.
If carbon monoxide leaks at night, an alarm near the bedrooms will sound and wake people up.
In living spaces like lounges or any room you spend a lot of time in, position a CO detector at roughly head height.
On Each Level of a Home
Ideally, have at least one CO detector on every floor of your house.
For a two-storey house, that means one upstairs and one downstairs.
In a single-storey property or apartment, make sure the one alarm you have is located centrally where its alarm can be heard throughout, and not too far from the main bedroom.
Height and Positioning
Carbon monoxide detectors can be installed on the ceiling or high up on a wall.
Carbon monoxide has roughly the same density as air and also tends to mix with warm air rising from appliances.
Therefore, you should place the detector at a height where it will detect the gas in the room’s air column.
If wall-mounting, put it at least as high as any door or window in that room and about 1.5 metres from the floor.
If ceiling-mounting, it should be at least 30 cm away from the nearest wall, since corners or edges of the ceiling can create dead air space.
Always follow the manufacturer’s mounting instructions specific to your detector model, as some detectors are designed to be wall-mounted and others on the ceiling.
Garages
If your home has an attached garage, it is wise to install a CO alarm in the room adjacent to the garage door.
Car exhaust is a common source of carbon monoxide, and fumes can seep into the house from the garage.
By placing a detector near the internal door to the garage, you’ll be warned if a car left running or any petrol tools in the garage are causing CO to enter your home.
How Does a Carbon Monoxide Detector Work?
A carbon monoxide detector works continuously to sniff out any CO gas.
Most modern CO detectors use an electrochemical sensor to detect carbon monoxide.
This sensor reacts with CO gas and generates an electrical signal proportional to the concentration of CO present.
In simple terms, the detector is constantly measuring the parts-per-million (ppm) level of carbon monoxide in the surrounding air.
When the CO level climbs too high, the detector’s built-in alarm is triggered.
Carbon monoxide detectors are designed to activate before healthy adults start feeling symptoms of poisoning.
They often operate on a concentration-time function.
Even relatively low CO concentrations will set off the alarm if they persist for several hours, while higher concentrations trigger the alarm much faster.
This ensures you are warned in time to take action.
Power Supply
Most CO alarms on the market are battery-powered, though some plug into mains outlets or are hard-wired into a home’s electrical system.
Regardless of power source, they all function similarly.
Alarm
The alarm sound is distinct and piercing (often an intermittent series of loud beeps).
It is designed to be audible enough to wake people from sleep and alert everyone in the house.
Where Not to Install a Carbon Monoxide Detector
Installing your carbon monoxide detector in the wrong place can undermine its ability to protect you.
It may lead to false alarms or, worse, failing to alarm when it should.
To ensure your CO alarm works effectively, you need to avoid certain bad locations and placement mistakes.
Let’s look at where not to install a carbon monoxide detector:
Blocked or Enclosed Spaces
Never install a CO detector inside a cupboard, behind heavy furniture, or in any enclosed space.
The sensor needs access to circulating air to detect CO.
If it’s obstructed or hidden, it may not sense the carbon monoxide until it’s too late.
Similarly, don’t put it in a narrow corner or at floor level behind curtains.
Keep it out in the open where air flows freely around it.
Too Close to Appliances
While you want the detector in the same room as a fuel-burning appliance, placing it right next to or above the appliance can be problematic.
For instance, mounting a CO alarm directly above a gas cooker or very close to a boiler could lead to nuisance alarms.
If the detector is too close, it might alarm unnecessarily.
These frequent false alarms can cause people to become desensitised or to disable the alarm.
For that reason, a minimum distance (often about 1–3 metres or roughly 10 feet) is recommended between the alarm and the appliance.
This way the detector monitors the general air in the room, not just the immediate vicinity of the appliance’s exhaust.
Near Windows, Vents, or Fans
Avoid installing a carbon monoxide detector right next to a window, exterior door, air vent, or ventilation fan.
Draughts and fresh air from outdoors can dilute the carbon monoxide in that area, so the detector might not register the gas even if CO is present elsewhere in the room.
CO could be building up in a different part of the room while fresh air near the detector keeps it low at that spot.
Likewise, being next to a heating or air conditioning vent can blow air on the sensor and potentially prevent it from detecting CO.
Always place detectors at least a few feet away from any sources of strong drafts or ventilation.
High Humidity
Do not install CO alarms in bathrooms or above cookers and kettles where they will be exposed to a lot of steam and humidity.
Excess moisture in the air can interfere with the sensor and lead to false alarms or corrosion over time.
A hot steamy shower could trigger a nearby CO alarm falsely, or constant humidity might damage its electronic components.
Keep detectors out of very damp areas like bathrooms, laundry rooms, or right next to humidifiers.
The same goes for areas with grease or smoke from cooking.
Grease buildup can clog the sensor opening.
It’s best to have the kitchen CO detector at least a few metres away from the hob or oven.
Extreme Temperatures
CO detectors generally should be used in living spaces.
Placing one in an environment that is extremely cold or hot (outside the typical range of about -10°C to 40°C) can cause it to malfunction.
If you put a detector in an unheated garage or attic that freezes in winter, its battery or sensor might not work properly.
Instead of mounting an alarm inside a potentially extreme environment like a loft or garage, mount it in the adjacent room where it will still detect CO.
Always check the manual as it will specify the acceptable temperature and humidity range for the unit.
Out of Earshot
An often-overlooked ‘wrong place’ is any location where you would not hear the alarm.
Remember that the purpose of a CO detector is to wake you or alert you to danger.
If you install one in a far corner of the basement but you sleep two floors up, that’s not going to be very useful unless the alarms are interconnected.
Make sure at least one alarm is close enough to sleeping areas that it would wake everyone up.
If you have a large home, consider interconnected alarms that all sound if one detects CO, so you can hear the alert everywhere.
For a standard standalone detector, place it within hearing range of bedrooms.
Carbon Monoxide Sources in Your Home
We’ve talked about where to put CO detectors, but what are the common sources of carbon monoxide inside a home?
Carbon monoxide is produced by the incomplete burning of carbon-based fuels.
This means any appliance or equipment that burns gas, coal, wood, oil, petrol, charcoal, or other fossil fuels can potentially produce carbon monoxide.
In a household setting, several sources can create CO gas:
Gas-fired Appliances
This includes gas boilers (central heating systems), gas water heaters, gas fires in fireplaces, and gas cookers/ovens.
When working correctly, these appliances burn gas (natural gas or LPG) cleanly to produce heat.
However, if they are faulty, poorly ventilated, or not properly adjusted, they can produce carbon monoxide.
For example, a boiler with a blocked flue or a cooker with a yellow, inefficient flame can release CO into your kitchen or utility room.
It’s one reason regular servicing of gas appliances is so important.
Solid Fuel and Wood Burning Appliances
Wood stoves, coal stoves, open fireplaces, and pellet burners can all emit carbon monoxide.
Solid fuels naturally create CO as they smoulder and burn.
If you have a chimney or flue that’s partially blocked or a stove that isn’t drawing properly, CO can spill back into the room.
Even dying embers in a fireplace overnight can produce CO.
Always ensure chimneys are clear and well-maintained, and have a CO detector in any room with a fireplace or wood-burning stove.
Vehicle Exhaust
If you have an attached garage, a prime source of carbon monoxide is a car engine.
Running a car in a garage can build up CO.
If the garage is attached to the house, the gas can seep through doorways or any small gaps into the home.
This is why it’s essential to have detectors near the door to an attached garage and of course.
Never leave vehicles running inside the garage with the door closed.
Even with the garage door open, CO can accumulate in the garage and drift indoors.
Some people warm up cars in winter or leave engines running unwittingly and a CO alarm can pick up the danger if those fumes begin entering the home.
Key Takeaways
You should now have more of an understanding of where to install a carbon monoxide detector in your home.
Carbon monoxide detectors are a simple but vital addition to any home that has a fuel-burning appliance.
They provide an early warning of a deadly gas that you cannot see or smell.
By following the placement guidelines outlined above, you and your family will be alerted in time to act.
Always remember to maintain your detectors: test them regularly and replace the batteries as needed.
Additionally, maintain your fuel-burning appliances with regular servicing to prevent CO problems at the source.
In a house equipped with properly placed carbon monoxide detectors, you can rest easier knowing you have a watchdog against this silent hazard.
The shrill beeping of a CO alarm at 3 AM might be jarring, but it could save your life.
It’s far better than the alternative of not knowing about a carbon monoxide leak.
Carbon monoxide incidents in London double over five years
London Fire Brigade has reported that carbon monoxide incidents across London more than doubled between 2019/20 and 2024/25.
Thousands of unsafe gas jobs go unchecked as unqualified installers sidestep scrutiny
Widespread risk from unregistered gas installations
ATAG has reported that more than 80% of certified UK gas engineers are regularly called out to correct dangerous installations carried out by unregistered individuals.
The findings, based on a national survey conducted by ATAG Heating Technology, indicate a consistent issue, with nearly half of respondents saying the faulty work they encounter creates a serious risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
The company said one in five engineers reported direct business losses due to these illegal jobs, including reputational damage and lost contracts.
According to the company, the problem stems from limited control over boiler sales and widespread use of social media by unregistered installers to promote their services.
ATAG stated that 61% of surveyed installers believe boiler sales should be restricted to Gas Safe registered engineers to reduce the number of unsafe installations.
Industry calls for tighter product sales restrictions
ATAG has called for legal limits on who can buy and install gas-critical equipment, urging policymakers to take action.
The company said it enforces a strict policy of selling only to certified professionals and is now encouraging others in the sector to adopt the same approach.
Kevin Treanor, Director of ATAG Heating Technology UK, said: “Illegal gas work poses a serious threat to our profession, but more than that, it endangers the lives of UK residents.”
Treanor added: “Every year, around 250,000 gas jobs are carried out by unqualified individuals, and we need to work to bring that number to zero.”
He continued: “According to the Gas Safe Register, two-thirds of work is unsafe, and our engineers routinely uncover dangerously installed systems that could lead to carbon monoxide poisoning, fires, or even explosions.
“Government data also shows that dozens of people lose their lives annually to carbon monoxide poisoning caused by faulty appliances.”
Survey findings highlight scale of problem
The survey found that 45% of illegal gas work is advertised on social media platforms, allowing unqualified individuals to access a broad audience without regulatory oversight.
ATAG said a third of engineers estimated that homeowners spend over £400 to fix these faulty installations, increasing financial risk alongside safety concerns.
Treanor said: “The fact that over half of installers are never asked to show ID when attending a job shows just how vulnerable the current system is. We urgently need tougher safeguards to protect the public and uphold professional standards.”
ATAG has launched a campaign to encourage tradespeople and the public to support legislative change, including a template letter to MPs available on its website.
Gas Safe Register and government data underline safety concerns
Treanor cited data from the Gas Safe Register showing that two-thirds of inspected jobs carried out by non-registered workers are deemed unsafe.
He also referenced UK government figures which show dozens of annual deaths from carbon monoxide poisoning, often linked to faulty gas appliances.
ATAG said that the profession cannot rely solely on customer vigilance and is asking for stronger structural protections to be implemented across the sector.
It stated that sales restrictions, improved verification checks, and public awareness campaigns are necessary to reduce harm.
Industry-wide appeal for legislative support
ATAG is asking the wider industry to join its push for reform by contacting MPs directly.
It is also encouraging members of the public to do the same through its website.
The company stated that legal restrictions on product sales would reduce the number of installations by unregistered individuals and help restore confidence in the profession.
ATAG continues to maintain its policy of working only with Gas Safe registered engineers and said that broader enforcement would benefit both safety and the trade.
Illegal gas work prompts new gas safety legislation call: Summary
ATAG Heating Technology has conducted a national survey of certified gas installers in the UK.
More than 82% of respondents said they fix illegal installations at least once per quarter.
Almost 50% said the work poses serious safety risks, including carbon monoxide poisoning.
One in five said illegal work causes them business harm.
The survey found that 45% of illegal work is advertised on social media.
ATAG reported that a third of engineers said customers pay over £400 to fix faulty jobs.
61% of respondents want boiler sales limited to Gas Safe engineers.
Kevin Treanor of ATAG said 250,000 gas jobs are done by unqualified individuals each year.
He cited Gas Safe Register data showing two-thirds of such work is unsafe.
UK government data shows dozens die each year from carbon monoxide linked to faulty appliances.
ATAG is calling on MPs to pass laws restricting boiler sales to registered professionals.
Installers and the public can write to MPs via the ATAG website.
New research on carbon monoxide exposure and detection to be discussed
Webinar to share findings on carbon monoxide detection and alarms
The Fire Protection Research Foundation (FPRF) will host a webinar on 6 February 2025 to present new research on carbon monoxide (CO) detection and alarm systems.
The event will cover two research projects: the state of CO alarms in US homes and a review of CO alarm detection thresholds.
The discussion will include insights from a survey conducted by the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and a literature review examining CO exposure risk levels for different populations.
Survey reveals gaps in carbon monoxide alarm awareness
In September 2024, the CPSC released findings from a nationwide survey on the presence and functionality of smoke and CO alarms in US households.
The Survey on Use and Functionality of Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms (SCOA) in Households included in-home interviews with 1,060 households across the country between 2019 and 2024.
The results indicate that while 90% of respondents consider smoke alarms “extremely necessary,” only 66% expressed the same view about CO alarms.
Additionally, 26% of respondents stated they knew “nothing at all” about CO alarms, and only 55% reported having at least one installed.
These findings, which reflect continuing challenges in CO safety awareness, will be discussed in the webinar.
Review examines carbon monoxide exposure risks
The FPRF is conducting a separate research project that evaluates current literature on CO exposure risks and detection thresholds.
The study aims to identify potential knowledge gaps in how CO exposure levels impact different populations and provide recommendations for future research.
Traditionally, symptoms of CO poisoning have been linked to carboxyhemoglobin (COHb) levels in the blood.
However, recent studies challenge this correlation.
The webinar will review these findings and their implications for CO safety standards and detection methods.
Industry experts to present findings
The webinar will feature speakers from the FPRF, CPSC, and REM Risk Consultants.
Jacqueline Wilmot, research project manager at the FPRF, will discuss the organisation’s ongoing studies.
Arthur Lee, senior electrical engineer at the CPSC, will present insights from the SCOA survey.
Dr.
Michael Larrañaga and Heather Genuise from REM Risk Consultants will also contribute to discussions on CO safety research.
The event will run for 90 minutes and is scheduled for 12:30 PM Eastern Standard Time on 6 February 2025.
Fire Protection Research Foundation to present latest carbon monoxide detection studies: Summary
The Fire Protection Research Foundation will host a webinar on 6 February 2025 to present research on carbon monoxide detection and alarms.
The event will cover findings from a US Consumer Product Safety Commission survey on household CO alarms and a literature review examining CO exposure risks.
The survey, conducted between 2019 and 2024, found that while 90% of respondents viewed smoke alarms as “extremely necessary,” only 66% felt the same about CO alarms.
The study also revealed that 26% of respondents had no knowledge of CO alarms, and only 55% reported having one.
A separate FPRF study is evaluating CO exposure thresholds and detection standards.
Experts from the FPRF, CPSC, and REM Risk Consultants will present their findings in the webinar, which will take place at 12:30 PM Eastern Standard Time.
UK survey highlights lack of carbon monoxide awareness among residents
Norwich and Brighton lead UK cities in carbon monoxide awareness
According to Firechief Global’s Carbon Monoxide Awareness Report, Norwich and Brighton have been identified as the cities with the highest levels of carbon monoxide awareness in the UK, both achieving a score of 8.5 out of 10.
In Norwich, 64% of residents were aware of the gas’s traits, such as its poisonous and colourless nature, while 68% recognised the symptoms of exposure, including dizziness.
Similarly, Brighton had the highest awareness of carbon monoxide traits at 68%, with 66% recognising symptoms and 62% understanding the sources of the gas.
Additionally, 78% of Brighton residents reported having a carbon monoxide alarm, ranking third nationwide for detector installation.
London and Birmingham rank among lowest for awareness
The report highlighted that London ranks as the city with the lowest carbon monoxide awareness in the UK, with only 57% of residents aware of its traits and 61% knowing the correct actions to take in case of a leak.
Furthermore, only 68% of Londoners reported having a carbon monoxide alarm installed, the second-lowest percentage across the nation.
Birmingham followed closely, ranking second-lowest.
The report revealed that 58% of Birmingham residents recognised carbon monoxide traits, while 59% were aware of symptoms.
Although 71% reported having an alarm installed, only 60% knew the proper steps to follow if their detector sounded.
Widespread knowledge gaps on carbon monoxide traits and safety measures
The survey revealed that 73% of Brits are unaware that carbon monoxide is flammable.
While most respondents (79%) recognised that the gas is poisonous, 33% were unaware that it is colourless, and 31% did not know it is odourless.
In terms of safety measures, only 57% of participants knew to turn off appliances when an alarm sounds.
While 73% would open windows and 70% would evacuate, just 54% indicated they would contact emergency services—an essential step in responding to a potential leak.
Alarm installation rates and age group disparities
The report found that 72% of UK households have a carbon monoxide alarm installed, leaving 28% without one or unsure if one is present.
Younger adults aged 16-24 were the least likely to have a detector, with 31% stating they did not have one or were unsure.
This figure slightly decreased for those aged 25-34 at 30%, and further declined to 25% among older age groups.
Ian Poole, Sales and Marketing Director at Firechief Global, commented: “Our survey highlights the crucial nature of providing the education needed for people to comfortably act in preventing the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning.
All homes with fuel-burning appliances must have carbon monoxide alarms fitted…
otherwise you may face fines up to £5,000 per property for non-compliance.”
Firechief Global report reveals UK’s carbon monoxide awareness gaps: Summary
Firechief Global’s Carbon Monoxide Awareness Report found that two in five Brits are unaware of carbon monoxide poisoning symptoms.
Norwich and Brighton scored the highest for awareness, while London ranked the lowest.
Gaps in understanding traits, such as its flammability, were evident, with 73% unaware of this characteristic.
Despite 72% of UK households having carbon monoxide detectors, younger demographics were the least likely to have alarms installed.
Firechief Global stressed the importance of education and compliance to mitigate risks associated with carbon monoxide poisoning.
Further reading: The Silent Threat – CO-Gas Safety explains the unseen dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning
HETAS highlights counterfeit carbon monoxide alarm dangers in UK homes
Findings on carbon monoxide alarm usage in UK homes
According to research from HETAS, a not-for-profit promoting safe solid fuel appliance use, almost 10% of UK wood-burning stove owners have never tested their carbon monoxide (CO) alarms, cannot recall doing so, or have left over a year since their last check.
These findings coincide with CO Awareness Week (18–24 November) and advice from UK Fire and Rescue Services urging households to test CO alarms monthly.
Data from the Office for National Statistics reveals that accidental CO exposure causes an average of over 60 deaths annually in the UK, with 45% occurring in homes.
Concerns over counterfeit CO alarms
HETAS has raised alarms over counterfeit CO detectors, often sold through online platforms, which fail to meet British Standard detection requirements.
Consumer group Which? conducted tests on over 1,000 unbranded alarms, discovering many could not detect carbon monoxide or developed faults after initial use.
Alan Young, HETAS Compliance Manager, stressed the importance of buying certified CO alarms: “Counterfeit CO alarms are non-certified, not fit for purpose, and are a cause of growing concern for consumer safety.”
Young advised purchasing from reputable retailers and checking for CE and UKCA marks, compliance with EN 50291-1 standards, and correct design features.
Safe installation and maintenance recommendations
Bruce Allen, CEO of HETAS, highlighted the dangers of improper stove installation and maintenance, which could lead to CO buildup.
He emphasised the role of trained, registered installers and cleaner-burning stoves that meet UK Smoke Control Area standards.
HETAS maintains an online register of certified technicians and appliances.
Allen said: “Using a trained and registered installer who meets appropriate standards is key for your safety, as is having a compliant carbon monoxide alarm fitted in the same room as the appliance.”
He also recommended using Ready to Burn fuels and sweeping chimneys at least every six months.
Advice for homeowners, tenants, and landlords
HETAS underlined the shared responsibility for CO safety.
In the UK, legislation mandates landlords to install and test smoke and CO alarms at the beginning of a tenancy.
Homeowners are also urged to conduct regular testing of CO alarms.
Young added that counterfeit alarms often feature unclear instructions, missing safety labels, and design flaws.
He advised consumers to consult reputable sources, including the HETAS website, for guidance on appliance safety and compliance.
HETAS highlights counterfeit carbon monoxide alarm dangers in UK homes: Summary
HETAS research reveals that nearly one in ten UK households with wood-burning stoves neglect to regularly test their carbon monoxide alarms, posing significant risks.
Counterfeit CO detectors, often sold online, fail to meet safety standards, potentially endangering lives.
HETAS advises purchasing certified alarms with CE and UKCA markings and urges homeowners to test alarms monthly.
Additional recommendations include using trained installers, cleaner-burning stoves, Ready to Burn fuels, and regularly sweeping chimneys.
UK regulations also require landlords to fit and test alarms for tenants.
During CO Awareness Week, HETAS emphasises the importance of vigilance in ensuring the functionality and authenticity of CO alarms in homes.
Firechief Global unveils new range of CO alarms for home safety in the UK
Carbon monoxide alarm range aims to improve home safety
Firechief Global has introduced a new series of carbon monoxide (CO) alarms aimed at enhancing household safety across the United Kingdom.
The lineup includes models equipped with extended battery life, wireless interconnectivity, and high-precision sensors to ensure early CO detection.
These alarms are currently available on Amazon, with retail availability in high-street stores anticipated in the coming months.
A recent Firechief Global survey found that only 58% of homeowners in the UK have carbon monoxide alarms installed, indicating that approximately 42%, or 11 million people, may lack CO protection.
Carbon monoxide is an odourless gas, making these detection devices essential for early warning in the event of a leak, as reported by Firechief Global.
Ian Poole, Sales & Marketing Director at Firechief Global, stated: “Our new range of carbon monoxide alarms is a game changer for household safety.
With features like wireless interlink and extended battery life, we are making it easier for families to protect themselves against this invisible threat.”
Portable CO detection with the FCB05 alarm model
One of the featured products, the FCB05 Carbon Monoxide Alarm, is designed as a portable, easy-to-use CO detector powered by two AA batteries.
It provides up to five years of battery life and does not require permanent installation, allowing users to place it flexibly within their homes.
Key features of this model include electrochemical CO sensing technology for precise detection and failsafe battery insertion to ensure the device remains operational.
The FCB05 is certified to EN50291-1:2018 standards, underscoring its compliance with current safety regulations.
The FCB05 offers an accessible, ready-to-use option for those seeking immediate CO protection.
This model, with its compact form and user-friendly setup, aims to enhance the convenience and accessibility of carbon monoxide safety for all types of households.
Maintenance-free protection with the FCB10 model
For homeowners looking for long-term, maintenance-free CO detection, the FCB10 Carbon Monoxide Alarm provides a sealed 10-year lithium battery, ensuring continuous protection without the need for battery replacements.
With an audible 85dB alarm and LED indicators, this model alerts users clearly in the event of a CO presence.
The FCB10 model’s wireless-free design further simplifies installation, making it a suitable option for households prioritising reliable, low-maintenance CO detection.
Like other alarms in the series, it is certified to EN50291-1:2018 standards, guaranteeing compliance with current safety requirements.
Whole-home coverage with the FCB10W wireless model
Firechief Global’s FCB10W Wireless Interlinked Carbon Monoxide Alarm offers extensive whole-home coverage, capable of wirelessly linking up to 39 additional alarms.
This interconnectivity allows multiple alarms to activate simultaneously if CO is detected in any area of the home, providing comprehensive protection across larger properties.
The FCB10W features a sealed 10-year battery, ensuring long-lasting operation without replacement needs, and can be controlled centrally using the Firechief Locate remote.
The model meets EN50291-1:2018 certification standards, adhering to industry-recognised safety benchmarks.
Firechief Global’s interlinked alarm is targeted at homeowners looking for an integrated CO protection solution.
Firechief unveils new range of CO alarms for home safety in the UK: Summary
Firechief Global recently released a new range of carbon monoxide alarms in the UK, focusing on improving home safety.
The range includes the portable FCB05, the 10-year battery FCB10, and the interlinked FCB10W, catering to various household needs.
A Firechief survey revealed that 42% of UK homeowners lack CO alarms, emphasising the need for these devices.
Ian Poole of Firechief Global commented on the importance of these alarms, stating they offer critical protection with added features like extended battery life and wireless interconnectivity.
Survey reveals 42% of UK homes lack carbon monoxide alarms
Widespread lack of carbon monoxide alarms in UK homes
A survey conducted by Firechief Global has revealed that 42% of homes in the UK do not have a carbon monoxide (CO) alarm installed, equating to over one in three homes.
According to Firechief Global’s Managing Director, Laurie Pollard, carbon monoxide poisoning is a serious threat: “Having carbon monoxide alarms fitted throughout your home is not just an optional safety precaution, it’s a lifesaver.”
Statistics show that around 40 people die annually from accidental CO poisoning in England and Wales, with 440 major injuries requiring hospitalisation and approximately 4,000 emergency department visits in England alone.
Experts believe the actual figures may be higher due to misdiagnosis and underreporting.
Regulations on carbon monoxide alarms
In October 2022, UK regulations were amended to mandate the installation of CO alarms in rooms with fixed combustion appliances, excluding gas cookers, in new builds and rental properties.
Landlords are required to replace or repair faulty alarms and check their condition before a tenancy begins.
Local housing authorities enforce these regulations in rental properties.
Pollard advocates for extending these regulations: “Extending the regulations to include existing homes is a crucial step the government needs to take in protecting everyone from the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning.
“The data shows that voluntary recommendations are not sufficient.”
The estimated cost for installing additional CO alarms is £27 per unit, with the price expected to decrease over time, according to the UK government.
How to fit your carbon monoxide alarm
Pollard outlines the steps for installing CO alarms: “It’s easier and safer to have your carbon monoxide alarm fitted by a professional who can ensure your alarm is compliant with the regulations and installed in all the right locations.
“However, that doesn’t mean you can’t opt for a DIY installation.”
CO alarms should be placed 1-3 metres from potential CO sources and at head height.
They should be installed in rooms with fixed combustion appliances and near sleeping areas, with at least one alarm on every home level.
Pollard recommends: “For battery-powered CO alarms, ‘sealed for life’ batteries are preferred over replaceable ones to prevent tampering.
Mains-powered alarms with battery backup are even safer, though they require professional installation.
Ensure your CO alarm meets British Standard BS 50291-1:2018.”
Best practice for testing your CO alarm
Regular testing is essential to ensure CO alarms function correctly.
Pollard advises: “Test your carbon monoxide alarm every month. Press the test button until the alarm sounds to confirm it’s operational.”
Check the indicator lights: a green light means normal operation, while a red light or audible alarm indicates a problem.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for specific models.
Non-sealed battery-powered alarms should have their batteries replaced at least once a year.
Understanding the signs of an expired carbon monoxide alarm
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colourless, odourless, and poisonous gas, often found in fumes produced by burning fuel in various types of engines and heating systems.
Due to its dangerous nature, it’s essential to have a functional carbon monoxide alarm in residences and rental properties.
However, like any device, CO alarms have a limited lifespan, typically around seven years.
Recognising the end-of-life signal in carbon monoxide alarms
The Seattle Fire Department has issued a guideline on recognising the signs of an expired CO alarm.
According to their advice, most CO alarms produced after 1 August 2009 come with an end-of-life warning, which usually manifests as a beep every 30 seconds or displays an “ERR” or “END” message.
It’s important to understand that this signal indicates the alarm has reached the end of its life and replacing the battery will not rectify the situation.
Although some alarms might have a feature that silences this signal for 30 days, this is only a temporary solution.
Responsibilities of renters and property managers
In 2013, it became mandatory to install CO alarms in all rental housing units in Washington State.
Under Washington State law (RCW 19.27.530), carbon monoxide alarms must be installed in new residences and existing rental properties.
Renters are responsible for maintaining the alarm and replacing batteries as needed, typically recommended once a year.
CO alarms should be placed outside each bedroom and on every floor of the dwelling, following the manufacturer’s installation guidelines.
Property owners and managers are advised to replace all CO alarms installed in or before 2013.
Immediate replacement is also recommended for any CO alarm that signals its end-of-life.
Renters should inform their property manager or landlord if their CO alarm beeps every 30 seconds, indicating it has expired.
However, residents should be aware that intermittent beeping of a CO alarm is not a reason to call 9-1-1.
A continuously beeping CO alarm could indicate the presence of carbon monoxide.
In such cases, where symptoms like dizziness, headache, vomiting, or flu-like symptoms are present, it’s crucial to seek fresh air and call 9-1-1 immediately.
IFSJ Comment
The guidance issued by the Seattle Fire Department on recognising the end-of-life signals of carbon monoxide alarms is a timely reminder of the importance of regular maintenance and timely replacement of these life-saving devices.
The distinction between the different types of signals emitted by CO alarms is critical in ensuring both the safety and peace of mind of residents.
This also highlights the shared responsibility between renters and property managers in ensuring compliance with safety regulations and the upkeep of essential safety equipment in residential properties.
The proactive replacement of CO alarms not only aligns with legal requirements but also serves as a preventative measure against potential carbon monoxide poisoning incidents, reinforcing the overarching theme of safety first in residential settings.