CO alarm going off? Open doors and windows, turn off fuel-burning appliances, get everyone out and call the National Gas Emergency Service on 0800 111 999. [VERIFY: Northern Ireland number (#21)] See what to do

Menu

About carbon monoxide

Carbon monoxide alarm buying guide

Detecting carbon monoxide is the key to keeping you and your family safe. There are many CO alarms available at reasonable prices with different features, and it can be hard to know what to look for. This guide will help you choose.

What to look for in a CO alarm

  • Certification

    Before buying a CO alarm, check it complies with British Standard EN 50291 [VERIFY: current part numbers (#8)] and carries a British or European approval mark, such as a Kitemark. Install, test and maintain your alarm in line with the manufacturer's instructions.

  • Audible alarm

    Make sure your alarm sounds when it detects carbon monoxide. Do not rely on a colour change or “black spot” indicator. You can be most at risk when you are asleep, and you may not notice early symptoms until it is too late. An audible CO alarm could wake you and save your life.

  • Power source

    Mains-powered CO alarms need professional installation by an electrician. Battery-powered alarms come with either replaceable or sealed-for-life batteries. A sealed-for-life alarm can be fitted and left, and is powered for its whole product life (usually 7 or 10 years). [VERIFY: lifespans against current range (#13)]

  • Digital CO display

    Shows the CO level in parts per million (ppm), even when it is below the level that triggers the alarm. This can warn you early if levels are creeping up. Expect to pay a little more for this feature.

  • Interlinked smoke and CO alarms are connected wirelessly. When one alarm is triggered, they all sound, so everyone in the home is alerted. [VERIFY: wording with the technical team (#14)]

  • Low-battery warning

    All battery-powered CO alarms warn you when the battery is low, with a chirp or a visual display. For sealed-for-life alarms, this means it is time to replace the alarm.

I can’t bear to think about what would have happened if we didn’t have the alarm.

Louise Aspinall, whose family were saved from CO poisoning. Read Louise's story

Where should I put a CO alarm?

Fit CO alarms in the same room as fuel-burning appliances, on the wall or ceiling, between 1 and 3 metres from the appliance. You can also fit alarms in bedrooms, close to where people breathe when asleep. Alarms should be installed by a competent person or heating engineer. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for full positioning details.

[VERIFY: against BS EN 50292 and product manuals (#11)]

Rooms to consider

  • Kitchen
  • Living room
  • Bedroom
  • Boiler room

Where to buy a CO alarm

A mother tucks her young daughter into bed.
You can also fit alarms in bedrooms

Find out more