Carbon Monoxide Alarms

Where should I install carbon monoxide alarms?

Carbon monoxide alarms should be placed inside of every bedroom and outside of areas where people usually sleep. It should be noted that many states are now requiring the installation of a carbon monoxide alarm inside of each bedroom. Carbon monoxide alarms should also be installed on every level in multiple story dwellings. If you have a basement, install a carbon monoxide alarm at the top of the basement stairs, and in each separate sleeping area. Carbon monoxide alarms should also be placed at least 15-20 ft. away from furnace or fuel burning heat sources.

What areas should I avoid installing a carbon monoxide alarm?

Do not install carbon monoxide alarms in garages, kitchens, furnace rooms, or in any dusty, dirty, humid, or greasy areas. Do not install co detectors in direct sunlight, or areas subjected to temperature extremes. These areas include crawl spaces, unfinished attics, un-insulated or poorly insulated ceilings, and porches. Carbon monoxide alarms should not be installed in outlets covered by curtains, heavy furniture or other obstructions. Do not install in turbulent air near ceiling fans, heat vents, air conditioners, fresh air returns, or open windows. Blowing air may prevent carbon monoxide from reaching the CO sensors.

What are some common sources of carbon monoxide (CO)?

Carbon Monoxide is a colorless, odorless, tasteless gas that's produced during incomplete combustion of any fuel like natural gas, charcoal, gasoline, kerosene, wood, gas, oil or coal. Common sources include:

• A vehicle running in an attached garage
• Furnace
• Clothes dryer
• Range
• Oven
• Stove
• Fireplace
• Water heater
• Space heater
• Portable generator
• Charcoal grill

Do carbon monoxide detectors detect natural gas?

No, not unless it is specifically marked as an explosive gas alarm. USI CO Alarms are single function and react to carbon monoxide only. To detect explosive gas, you’ll need an explosive gas alarm. The USI Store features combination carbon monoxide and natural gas alarms.

Why does my CO alarm "chirp" approximately once every minute?

The CO alarm chirps to indicate a "low battery" condition, meaning the battery needs to be replaced. Battery powered CO alarms will chirp a minimum of 30 days before the battery completely loses power.

AC powered CO alarms with battery backup will chirp indefinitely (assuming AC power is present) if battery power is low (or battery is removed) until a fresh battery is installed. Approved replacement batteries are listed on the back of each CO alarm.

What is Ten Year Permanent Power?

USI Ten Year Sealed Battery Alarms include a combination of features exclusive to the USI brand. All USI Ten Year Sealed Battery Detectors include a 10 Year Dual Warranty that's applicable to both the alarm and battery. Overall peace of mind is bolstered to an even greater extent as all USI branded Ten Year Sealed Battery Alarms begin their protection cycle upon activation. Protection upon activation removes the guessing game usually associated with an alarm's longevity and performance. USI has also elected to utilize lithium free 10 year batteries that encourage an eco-friendly approach to the disposal process. Unlike alkaline and lithium powered alarms, USI 10 Year Sealed Battery Detectors can safely be disposed in an eco-conscious manner.

USI Battery Operated Carbon Monoxide Alarms implement 10 year permanent power via a lithium-free battery that ensures long lasting co detection. All USI battery powered detectors include built-in microprocessor intelligence that virtually eliminates nuisance alarms, ensuring you and your surroundings are warned of actual dangers. USI Hardwired Carbon Monoxide Alarms are available as combination detectors that offer protection against multiple threats. With the correct setup, you’ll be able to safeguard your home or place of business from the many dangers associated with undetected co, natural gasses and smoke.

The ability to interconnect hardwired carbon monoxide detectors opens a wealth of custom safety options to explore when safeguarding your surroundings. USI Plug-In Carbon Monoxide Alarms offer extreme flexibility as they can easily be inserted into an outlet (no additional wiring necessary). 120v plug-in carbon monoxide alarms are also capable of sensing natural gas (methane). Both versions of the USI Plug-In CO Detector include a 9v battery for continued coverage in the event of a power outage.