The carbon monoxide (CO) detector regulations require that a functioning carbon monoxide detector must be installed in every one and two family house, co-op or condo. Failure to comply with the regulations is a class B violation. Civil penalties can range from $25 to $100 and $10 per day for each violation until the violation is certified as corrected.
At least one approved carbon monoxide alarm must be present in each dwelling unit. The carbon monoxide alarms must be installed within fifteen feet of the primary entrance to each bedroom. They can be installed at other room locations and at heights recommended by the manufacturer. CO detectors do not have to be installed on or near the ceiling. To ensure proper operation, do not install CO detectors next to bathrooms, which are sources of humidity, or near gas stoves, gas dryers, etc. Detectors should not be placed in areas where they are likely to be damaged by children or pets.
Carbon monoxide is a highly toxic gas and CO poisoning can be fatal. CO is very dangerous because it is colorless, odorless, tasteless, and non-irritating. CO is the product of the incomplete combustion of fossil fuels such as oil, natural gas, gasoline, wood and coal. The major sources of CO in homes and apartments are fossil fuel burning boilers, furnaces, water heaters, fireplaces and parking garages. The warning signs of CO poisoning are headaches, dizziness, tiredness and nausea. If you feel that you are suffering from the effects of CO poisoning or that your home may have a CO leak immediately open all of the windows and remove yourself from your home and call the Fire Department.
The carbon monoxide alarms must have UL certification (it will most likely state this on the carbon monoxide package) and must be installed according to the manufacturer's installation instructions. For existing buildings, CO detectors can be battery-operated, or can plug into an electrical outlet as long as it has a battery back-up in case of power interruption. New buildings or substantially improved buildings must have detectors that are hard-wired to the building's electrical systems. The installation of a combination smoke alarm/CO detector is allowed. If the carbon monoxide detector is part of a fire/burglar/carbon monoxide system or the alarms are monitored by a service, a distinctive alarm must be used to differentiate between the carbon monoxide alarm and the other system functions.
The carbon monoxide alarm must be maintained and kept in good repair according to the manufacturer's instructions. Test all carbon monoxide detectors at least once a month (all alarms have test buttons). Replace batteries twice a year, in the spring and in the fall when clocks are changed for daylight savings time. An audible trouble signal will sound warning that the battery is low. Replace the battery immediately. Never paint over carbon monoxide detectors. The alarms shall not be removed except for replacement, service or repair of the alarm.
Copyright © 2011. By Rosalinda Morgan, "The Rose Lady". All rights reserved. *IS CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTOR REQUIRED FOR ALL HOMES?*
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