Exact placement depends on local code and the manufacturer, but household protection commonly includes carbon monoxide alarms on each level and near sleeping areas. Do not place them randomly or immediately beside fuel-burning equipment without checking instructions.
Protect sleeping areas
Place alarms where they can wake sleeping occupants, following the manufacturer’s distance and height instructions and local code.
Cover each level of the home
Basements and levels with fuel-burning appliances also matter. A single alarm far from bedrooms may not provide adequate warning throughout the home.
Avoid locations that distort detection
Do not install where steam, direct airflow, extreme contamination, or immediate proximity to an appliance conflicts with the manual. Each model can have specific requirements.
Test and replace on schedule
Use the test button at the recommended interval and replace the unit at end of life. An installed but expired alarm does not provide the intended protection.
Sources
- U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission — Carbon Monoxide Information Center — Carbon monoxide risks, alarms, placement, and response to an activation.