03/11/2026
Most homes have carbon monoxide detectors, but many people don’t realize how limited the traditional ones actually are.
Standard residential CO detectors are designed to meet safety codes, not to warn you at the earliest signs of danger. Most of these detectors will NOT sound an alarm until carbon monoxide reaches 70 PPM and remains there for 60–240 minutes. That means dangerous levels of CO can be present in your home for hours before the alarm ever goes off.
Even lower levels of carbon monoxide can cause symptoms like headaches, dizziness, nausea, and fatigue. Prolonged exposure can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning, and higher levels can quickly become life-threatening.
For better protection, consider upgrading to a low-level carbon monoxide monitor that actually displays the CO levels in your home. These devices alert you to rising CO levels long before they reach the threshold of a standard detector, giving you time to react before it becomes dangerous.
As an HVAC company, we strongly recommend homes with fuel-burning equipment (furnaces, boilers, water heaters, fireplaces, or generators) have a carbon monoxide monitor that displays real-time levels, not just a basic alarm.
Carbon monoxide is colorless, odorless, and impossible to detect without the right equipment. Protect your family with the right detector — not just the minimum required one.
If you have questions about carbon monoxide safety or your heating system, feel free to reach out.
📞 Call or Text: 603-703-5520
