Carbon Monoxide Alarm Safety
Straightforward guidance on where to position CO alarms in your home.
Why Carbon Monoxide Alarms Matter
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colourless, odourless gas that can be produced when fuel — wood, coal, gas, or oil — does not burn completely. It can build up wherever there is an open fire, wood-burning stove, boiler, or other fuel-burning appliance, which is why a working CO alarm is such an important safeguard alongside a regularly swept and serviced chimney or flue.
A CO alarm cannot prevent carbon monoxide from being produced, but it gives you an early warning if levels in your home start to rise, so you and your family can act quickly.
Where to Position a CO Alarm
- ✓Fit an alarm in every room that contains a fuel-burning appliance — an open fire, wood-burning stove, boiler, or gas fire.
- ✓Fit an alarm near sleeping areas, so it can be heard clearly if it sounds during the night.
- ✓Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the specific model you buy — recommended mounting height and distance from appliances can vary between manufacturers.
- ✓As a general rule, avoid mounting an alarm directly above or right next to an appliance, in a corner where air may not circulate, or right beside a window, door, or extractor fan where fresh air could affect the reading — again, always check the specific guidance supplied with your alarm.
- ✓Test your alarm regularly and replace the battery (or the whole unit, if it has a sealed battery reaching the end of its life) as instructed by the manufacturer.
- ✓Have fuel-burning appliances, flues, and chimneys checked and swept regularly by a competent professional, in line with the appliance manufacturer's and your insurer's recommendations.
This guidance is general in nature. Always follow the instructions supplied with your specific CO alarm and consult a competent professional for advice on your individual property.
Book Your Annual Sweep
A well-maintained chimney is part of staying safe. Call 07738 464850 for a free no-obligation quote.