The short answer: before you turn the heat on this fall, make sure you have working carbon monoxide detectors near every sleeping area and on every level, that they’re within their expiration date, and ideally that at least one is monitored so help is dispatched even if no one is awake to hear it.
Carbon monoxide (CO) is colorless and odorless. You can’t see it, smell it, or taste it, and early symptoms like headache, dizziness, and nausea are easy to mistake for the flu. That’s exactly why it’s so dangerous, and why the first cold weeks of the year are when we see the most CO calls.
Why Fall Is CO Season
- Heating systems restart after months off. Cracked heat exchangers, blocked flues, and bird nests in chimneys show up the first time the system runs.
- Homes get sealed up. Closed windows mean less fresh air to dilute any CO that builds up.
- Generators come out. Storm season on Long Island means portable generators, which should never run in a garage or near windows.
What New York Law Requires
New York’s Amanda’s Law requires carbon monoxide alarms in homes that have fuel-burning appliances (like a gas or oil furnace, boiler, water heater, or fireplace) or an attached garage. If you have any of those, you need CO detection. Your local municipality may have additional requirements, so check with your town or ask us.
Where CO Detectors Should Go
- Outside each sleeping area, in the hallway near the bedrooms
- On every level of the home, including the basement
- Near (but not right next to) the furnace or boiler room
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on height and distance from appliances
Detectors Expire
Most CO detectors have a limited life, commonly 7 to 10 years depending on the model. Many will chirp or display an end-of-life warning. Check the date printed on the back. If you can’t find one, or it’s older than you can remember, replace it. Learn more on our smoke & CO detectors page.
Standalone vs. Monitored CO Detection
A standalone detector beeps. That’s helpful if you’re home and awake. But CO symptoms make people drowsy and confused, and nobody hears a beeping detector in an empty house.
A monitored CO detector connects to your alarm system and alerts the central station, which can contact you and dispatch the fire department. For families with young children, elderly parents, or anyone who’s away from home often, it’s an easy upgrade.
If Your CO Alarm Goes Off
- Get everyone, including pets, outside into fresh air immediately
- Call 911 from outside
- Don’t go back in until responders say it’s safe
- Have your heating system inspected before using it again
For more prevention tips, see our guide to preventing CO exposure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a combination smoke/CO detector good enough?
Combination units are fine as long as they’re placed where both smoke and CO coverage are needed. Many homes still benefit from dedicated CO detectors near the bedrooms and the heating system.
Can I add monitored CO detection to my existing alarm?
Usually yes. Most alarm panels support a compatible wireless or hardwired CO detector that reports to the monitoring station.
How often should I test my CO detectors?
Test them monthly with the test button, and have your heating system inspected once a year before the season starts.
Talk to a Local Expert
CWC Security has protected homes and businesses across Nassau and Suffolk County since 2012. Call us at (516) 889-3600 or request a free consultation and we’ll walk your property and tell you exactly what makes sense, and what doesn’t.