Will A CO Detector Sense A Gas Leak In Evanston
A big part of being a homeowner is to protect you, your family, and your home from disasters like fires, flooding, and break-ins. You could also fret about problems that could be in the air you breathe. As it pertains to these unseen threats, you may be thinking about if a carbon monoxide detector will sense a gas leak in Evanston.
The simple answer is "They will not," but CO detectors are still a big piece of your home's home security system. Here's what you should know when defending against gas that shouldn’t infiltrate your rooms.
Natural gas is different than carbon monoxide
While natural gas and CO can be linked together, it's vital to know the difference between the two. A natural gas leak can occur in a few areas, definitely when your gas line enters your house or around the place where your furnace lives. These leaks are a hazard because natural gas can be flammable, and there’s a huge risk of an explosion or fire. The good news is you will likely notice leaks faster because of the additive that produces the telltale rotten-egg smell. If you find the smell you you need to contact 911 directly and leave the premises.
Carbon Monoxide Is Unscented, Invisible Menace To Your Health
Carbon Monoxide can be a deadly gas which is a byproduct of improper or incomplete burning of fuel. It typically comes into your home via a malfunctioning furnace, gas fireplace, or clothes dryer. While CO isn’t as explosive as natural gas, it is still combustible. But the more concerning problem is to your health. CO doesn't have the rotten-egg additives that are in natural gas, making it an odorless, invisitible "silent killer."
Carbon monoxide prevents your body from getting the oxygen it needs
After CO invades your lungs, it stops blood from distributing the oxygen your body requires. Basically, CO can smother you, and it's especially hazardous to babies and children who take more breaths and whose lungs are still growing. When you experience CO poisoning, you might have headaches, dizziness, nausea, and problems breathing. Continued exposure may lead to passing out or death.
CO detectors are one of the most important safety or security equipment
While a CO detector can’t warn about a gas leak in Evanston, it may protect your family by warning you to this invisible and deadly byproduct. The greatest danger happens late at night when you are in bed, as you probably won't notice what's happening. However, even if you're awake, you could not even know that carbon monoxide has invaded your home.
So treat a carbon monoxide detector like a smoke detector. Install these devices higher up on the wall or ceiling as CO is slightly lighter than air. Each floor of your house should see at least one sensor. And it's highly suggested to place them by the bedrooms. And, you should check out your carbon monoxide detectors once a month.
Link your carbon monoxide detectors into your smart security system
When you link your carbon monoxide detector with your home security system, you stack another layer of security. Not only will you enjoy fast and accurate carbon monoxide detection, but you'll also mobile alerts and a quick response from your 24-hour monitoring team. Monitoring is especially needed with a carbon monoxide leak, as they’ll make sure rescue will come even if you aren’t able make the call yourself.