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Carbon Monoxide, Gas and Smoke Alarms
Three different hazards need three different devices: a carbon monoxide alarm detects the odourless, toxic gas produced by incomplete combustion, a smoke alarm detects fire before flames appear, and a gas detector detects leaks of natural gas or LPG. None of these can replace the others.
What are you looking for?
Where should the detector be installed?
Carbon monoxide alarm: install it in the room where the open-flue appliance is located (boiler, gas heater, gas water heater, fireplace, water heater), 1–3 metres from the appliance, roughly at head height. The density of carbon monoxide is close to that of air, so it should not be placed on the ceiling. Do not place it directly above the appliance, next to a window or vent, or in a dusty, humid location.
Smoke alarm: install it on the ceiling, towards the centre of the room, at least 50 cm from the wall. At least one per floor, and ideally also in the hallway outside bedrooms. Do not install an optical smoke alarm in the kitchen or bathroom, as steam and cooking smoke can trigger false alarms; a heat detector should be used there instead.
Gas detector: natural gas is lighter than air, so it should be installed near the ceiling. LPG, on the other hand, is heavier, so it should be installed near the floor.
What to consider when buying?
- Sensor lifespan: the sensor in a carbon monoxide alarm wears out over time; typically the device must be replaced after 7–10 years even if it has never triggered an alarm. The expiry date is marked on the device.
- Battery or built-in battery: with a replaceable battery model, changing the battery extends operation, while with a built-in 10-year battery model, the entire unit must be replaced when it expires.
- Display: an LCD display model also shows the measured concentration, not just an alarm. This is very helpful for troubleshooting.
- Alarm volume: 85 dB is the general requirement to ensure the alarm wakes a sleeping person.
- Certification: the relevant standard is EN 50291 for carbon monoxide alarms and EN 14604 for smoke alarms.
What to do if the carbon monoxide alarm sounds?
Open a window, turn off the gas appliance, and go outside into fresh air. Do not look for the cause of the problem indoors. If anyone experiences headache, dizziness, nausea or confusion, call emergency services. Only return to the room after thorough ventilation, and have the appliance checked by a professional before using it again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a carbon monoxide alarm mandatory in a home?
In private homes it is generally not mandatory, but it is strongly recommended wherever an open-flue gas appliance is in use.
How many detectors are needed in a family house?
For carbon monoxide, one per room containing an open-flue appliance. For smoke alarms, at least one per floor, plus one in the hallway outside the bedrooms. In an average two-storey family house, this typically means one CO alarm and two to three smoke alarms.
How long does a detector last?
The sensor is typically reliable for 7–10 years, and the expiry date is printed on the device. The battery should be checked annually, and the test button should be pressed monthly.
What is the difference between a smoke alarm and a heat detector?
A smoke alarm detects smoke particles, so it triggers earlier, but may give false alarms in kitchens and bathrooms. A heat detector reacts to a rapid rise in temperature, making it suitable for locations with steam or cooking smoke.