Carbon Monoxide Detector Beeping

Carbon monoxide detector beeping can be very useful in protecting you and your family from the potentially deadly effects of this gas. These simple devices, which look very similar to smoke detectors, are a common feature in many homes and buildings. They’re designed to help protect against the poisonous effects of carbon monoxide, which can include headaches, dizziness, weakness, vomiting, and a general feeling like you have the flu.

However, just like any other household device, carbon monoxide detectors can sometimes experience issues, such as beeping. Luckily, there are several different reasons for this and most can be solved with some troubleshooting.

Detecting Natural Gas Leaks: The Importance of a Reliable Detector

The most common reason a CO detector will start beeping is that it is reaching the end of its lifespan. This will typically happen over a period of 7 to 10 years depending on the model of detector, and it will usually indicate this with a chirping noise (often 2 beeps every 30 seconds).

The other most common cause for a carbon monoxide detector to begin beeping is that the detector has detected dangerous levels of CO. This is indicated by four beeps followed by a quick pause of silence. In this situation, it is crucial that you evacuate the home and call 911. It’s also essential that you don’t return to the home until emergency services have checked and cleared it for carbon monoxide. They can check for any damage that may have been caused to the detector, and they can make sure it is safe for re-entry.