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Carbon Monoxide 101: How Long Do Carbon Monoxide Detectors Last & Other Questions

May 04, 2023

Carbon monoxide (CO) is sometimes called “the silent killer” because it’s a colorless, odorless gas that can harm you without you knowing it. While that’s a pretty frightening scenario, the good news is that CO’s silence is easily thwarted by a carbon monoxide detector. 

Just as smoke detectors alert you to the presence of smoke, carbon monoxide detectors alert you to high levels of CO in the air inside your home. 

How long do carbon monoxide detectors last? Do you need a carbon monoxide detector in an all-electric house? What does it mean if your detector starts beeping? Here, we’ll cover all your questions about CO and the devices that protect you from it.

WHAT IS CARBON MONOXIDE?

Carbon monoxide, or CO, is an invisible gas that has no odor. It’s created as a byproduct of combustion—which occurs when fossil fuels are burned to create energy—and is typically vented away from appliances like furnaces, water heaters, and stoves.

If you have any concerns about carbon monoxide in your home, don’t wait! Reach out to home safety professionals to make sure your CO detection needs are taken care of.

WHY DO YOU NEED A CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTOR?

If there is an excessive amount of carbon monoxide in your home’s air, you need to know about it as soon as possible so you can take action. Since carbon monoxide has no natural scent, you need a detector to warn you of its presence.

Undetected carbon monoxide poses serious risks to your health. When you inhale carbon monoxide, it replaces oxygen in your bloodstream. This can lead to health complications since your cells do not receive the oxygen they need to function normally. Victims of CO poisoning can lose consciousness and develop:

  • Memory issues

  • Loss of movement

  • Changes in personality

Untreated carbon monoxide poisoning can even lead to brain damage or death.

WHY IS MY CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTOR BEEPING?

There are two primary reasons your carbon monoxide detector might beep, and knowing the difference is crucial. 

  • Sporadic chirping: Similar to a smoke detector, if your unit chirps every minute or two, it probably needs a fresh pair of batteries. Replace them as soon as possible.

     

  • Persistent beeping: This is extremely serious. Steady beeping means there are dangerous levels of CO in your home. If a carbon monoxide detector goes off, everybody should evacuate the building immediately. Call 911 from a safe place and tell them what happened—do not assume it’s safe to re-enter your home until an expert has cleared you.

HOW TO TEST YOUR CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTOR

If you have your detector’s manual, you can check it for specific testing guidelines. However, most carbon monoxide detectors are set up similarly to smoke detectors, with a test button you can use. 

Press this button for a few seconds until the device beeps. It will likely give you a series of beeps to let you know it’s still in working order. 

If your carbon monoxide detector doesn’t respond to the testing button, replace the batteries immediately. If that doesn’t work, replace the entire unit.

Do you have reason to suspect your unit isn’t working properly? You can always replace it for peace of mind or contact the home service pros at YES! A service plan is an affordable way to make sure you always get the help you need.

HOW LONG DO CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTORS LAST?

How often should you get a new carbon monoxide detector? Check your owner’s manual. Newer models can let you know when it’s time for a replacement. As a general rule, you won’t want to keep your device for longer than seven years. The sensors will most likely wear out around that time, leaving you unprotected.

TURN TO YES! FOR CARBON MONOXIDE CONCERNS IN NEVADA OR UTAH

YES! expert technicians can set your mind at ease when it comes to carbon monoxide. We’re dedicated to helping you create a safe and energy-efficient home in Las Vegas or Salt Lake City. Our staff can help you choose and install carbon monoxide detectors for added protection from this serious health concern. Plus, our comprehensive home safety inspections are second to none.

If you’re a Nevada or Utah resident looking to protect your home from carbon monoxide, contact YES! at 844-216-9300. 

We can also provide the competent HVAC repair services necessary to reduce the risk of CO buildup inside your home. Reach out for more information about our HVAC repair services, indoor air quality solutions, or special offers. You can also find more heating and cooling tips and information on our blog.

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Last Updated: September 10, 2024

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Frequently Asked Questions

DOES A CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTOR DETECT NATURAL GAS?

Not usually. The role of carbon monoxide detectors is simple: These devices measure the amount of carbon monoxide in your home and sound an alarm if they detect elevated levels. Unless your specific model explicitly states that it also detects natural gas, assume it will only work for CO.

CAN YOU GET CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING FROM AIR CONDITIONING?

No. Air conditioning systems are electric, so there’s no danger of them emitting CO and putting your home at risk. Some homeowners are concerned that their AC might leak CO, but this isn’t possible. 

Remember: Every home should have carbon monoxide detectors. While the AC isn’t an issue, there are likely other potential sources of CO in your home.

HOW FAR SHOULD A CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTOR BE FROM THE FURNACE?

It’s wise to place a CO detector on the same floor as your furnace, but it shouldn’t be too close. Place the device at least 15 feet away so the furnace doesn’t make your carbon monoxide detector go off with false positives.

CAN AN ELECTRIC HEATER PRODUCE CARBON MONOXIDE?

No, only fuel-burning heaters or furnaces can produce carbon monoxide. Electric heaters pose no risk when it comes to CO. However, it’s important to remember that even residents in all-electric houses need to take precautions.

DO I NEED A CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTOR IN AN ALL-ELECTRIC HOUSE?

Absolutely. Even if your house doesn’t have any gas appliances, CO may be able to leak in through an attached garage, a generator set up nearby, or an unknown source. There are a number of possible sources of CO buildup in an all-electric house, and it’s not worth the risk.

DOES EVERY HOME NEED A CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTOR?

Yes, all homes should be equipped with a carbon monoxide detector. According to the National Safety Council, carbon monoxide detectors should be installed near all bedrooms in your home. If these devices run on batteries, you should check the batteries—and replace them if necessary—at least twice a year.