Use and Care Manual

Page 11
CO AND NATURAL GAS ALARM LIMITATIONS
Alarms have limitations. Like any other electronic device, CO and Natural Gas alarms are not foolproof.
CO and Natural Gas alarms have a limited operational life. Your alarm must be tested weekly,
because it could fail to operate at any time. If your Alarm fails to test properly, or if its self-diagnostic
test reveals a malfunction, immediately have the unit replaced (see last page for warranty information).
CO and Natural Gas alarms can only sense CO which reaches the alarm's sensor. Carbon monoxide
may be present in other areas without reaching the alarm.
CO or gas could be present on one level of the home and not reach the alarm installed on a different
level. For example, CO or gas in the basement may not reach an alarm on the second level, near
the bedrooms. For this reason, we recommend you provide complete coverage by placing a CO and
Natural Gas alarm on every level of the home.
CO and Natural Gas alarms are not a substitute for property, disability, life or other insurance of any
kind. Appropriate coverage is your responsibility.
POTENTIAL SOURCES OF CO IN THE HOME
Fuel-burning appliances, such as; heaters, gas or wood burning fireplaces, gas kitchen ranges
or cooktops, gas clothes dryers.
Damaged or insufficient venting; such as; corroded or disconnected water heaters, vent pipes,
leaking chimneys, pipes or flues or cracked heat exchangers, blocked or clogged chimney openings.
Improper use of appliances/devices; operating a barbeque grill or vehicle in an enclosed area
(such as a garage or screened porch).
Transient CO Problems: "transient" or on-again/off-again CO problems can be caused by outdoor
conditions and other special circumstances.
The following conditions can result in transient CO situations:
1. Excessive spillage or reverse venting of fuel-burning appliances caused by outdoor ambient
conditions, such as:
• Wind direction and/or velocity, including high gusts of wind. Heavy air in the vent pipes (cold/
humid air with extended periods between cycles).
• Negative pressure differential resulting from the use of exhaust fans.
• Simultaneous operation of several fuel-burning appliances competing for limited internal air.
• Vent pipe connections vibrating loose from clothes dryers, furnaces or water heaters.
• Obstructions in or unconventional vent pipe designs which can amplify the above situations.
2. Extended operation of unvented fuel-burning devices (ranges, ovens, fireplaces).
3. Temperature inversions which can trap exhaust close to the ground.
4. A car idling in an open or closed attached garage or near a home.
HOW CAN I PROTECT MY FAMILY FROM CO POISONING?
This alarm is an excellent means of protection. It monitors the air and sounds a loud alarm before
carbon monoxide levels become threatening to the average, healthy adult.
An alarm is not a substitute for proper maintenance of home appliances.
To help prevent CO problems and reduce the risk of CO poisoning:
• Clean chimneys and flues yearly. Keep them free of debris, leaves and nests for proper air flow.
Also, have a professional check for rust and corrosion, cracks or separations. These conditions
can prevent proper air movement and cause backdrafting. Never "cap" or cover a chimney in
any way that would block air flow.
• Test and maintain all fuel-burning equipment annually. Many local gas or oil companies and
HVAC companies offer appliance inspections for a nominal fee.
• Make regular visual inspections of all fuel-burning appliances. Check appliances for excessive
rust and scaling. Also check the flame on the burner and pilot lights. The flame should be blue.
A yellow flame means fuel is not being burned completely and CO may be present. Keep the
blower door on the furnace closed. Use vents or fans when they are available on all fuel-burning
appliances. Make sure appliances are vented to the outside. Do not grill or barbecue indoors or
in garages or screen porches.
• Check for exhaust backflow from CO sources. Check the draft hood on an operating furnace for
a backdraft. Look for cracks on furnace heat exchangers.
• Check the house or garage on the other side of a shared wall.
• Keep windows and doors open slightly. If you suspect that CO is escaping into your home, open
a window or a door. Opening windows and doors can significantly decrease CO levels.