Common question for Southern California – where should carbon monoxide detectors be placed? High? Low? Anywhere?
The specific gravity of Carbon Monoxide is 0.9657 (with normal air being 1.0), this means it is roughly the same as air. CO detectors can generally be placed anywhere they will be heard, in sleeping areas, and in proximity to gas sources ie stoves, fireplaces, etc. Carbon monoxide detectors can also be placed high or low or at body height – any place where the alarm can be heard and seen if triggered. They should be placed near bedrooms and sleeping areas, and there should be one CO detector for approx. every 1500 sq ft of living space. Also, any sleeping area with a gas appliance (ie fireplace, etc) requires a CO detector.
State of California recommends carbon monoxide detectors on every floor of your home, including the basement. A detector should be located within 10 feet of each bedroom door and there should be one near or over any attached garage. Each detector should be replaced every five to six years and checked often.
Basements are rare in So Cal, but if you have one, a carbon monoxide detector in needed in the basement due to the number of gas appliances that may be in the basement area. A working CO detector will detect any issues or leaks.
Make sure you have high quality CO detectors throughout your home, especially if your home is small, since CO can build up quicker than if your home is very large. Always have a CO detector in any sleeping room with a gas appliance. Place detectors where you can easily reach them in case they trigger. And do not put them in closets or bathrooms.
Call us with any questions you may have at 310-800-4418.