Carbon monoxide detectors are simple fixtures located in most residential homes. They set off an alert when the colorless, odorless, and poisonous carbon monoxide gas is measured in a room. Oregon law requires them to be installed in homes with a CO source, or ones with an attached garage with that opens into the house. Other states have similar laws–mandating carbon monoxide detectors. All residential or rental properties transferring ownership need to be fitted with detectors before the sale.
Installation is relatively simple. If you cannot hard wire them in, some are designed to be plugged in, and some are battery operated. Oregon law requires any new instillations of CO detectors to be less than five years old. The best places to install are in hallways by bedrooms, or in each bedroom itself. Different manufacturers specify wall or ceiling, so read all packaging materials carefully.
Places you should NOT install carbon monoxide detectors are in garages, next to ceiling fans, gas burning appliances, gas fireplaces, gas water heaters, or in direct sunlight. More information about the regulations can be found on the Oregon fire marshal’s website at Oregon.gov. For residents of other states, visit your own fire marshal’s website.
