Buying VS Renting. Which is Better?
Do You Need a Carbon Monoxide Detector? Maybe.
Since 2008, Floridians have been required to follow regulations regarding carbon monoxide detectors in the home. If you are building a new structure, or if you are adding to an existing one, you will need to expect to have detectors in your home.
Carbon monoxide, which has the chemical formula CO2, is a gas that is created by burning fossil fuels. Cars, stoves, fireplaces, grills, etc., will all give off carbon monoxide when in use. It is a colorless, odorless gas that can build up in enclosed spaces. If too much of the gas accumulates undetected, it can become lethal when inhaled by people and pets.
The 2008 regulations on new homes or additions to homes apply to fossil-fuel-burning heaters or appliances; fireplaces; attached garages; or any “other feature, fixture, or element that emits carbon monoxide as a byproduct of combustion.” Any room that is designated a “sleeping room” will need to have a carbon monoxide detector within ten feet. This is to prevent people from sleeping through a buildup of the gas. The carbon monoxide detectors may be hardwired or battery-powered. They can be an individual unit or a combination smoke alarm/CO2 detector.
The rules are a little different for healthcare buildings or correctional facilities. The CO2 detector must only be within distance of the appliance giving off the CO2 gas. The detector may be connected to the fire alarm system, and it will go off as a “supervisory signal,” rather than a full-blown alarm.
The key terms of the regulations are defined in the following ways:
Carbon monoxide alarm: a device that is meant for the purpose of detecting carbon monoxide, that produces a distinct audible alarm, and that meets the requirements of and is approved by the Florida Building Commission.
Fossil fuel: coal, kerosene, oil, fuel gases, or other petroleum or hydrocarbon product that emits carbon monoxide as a by-product of combustion.
Addition: an extension or increase in floor area, number of stories, or height of a building or structure.
The full regulations can be found here: http://www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?mode=View%20Statutes&SubMenu=1&App_mode=Display_Statute&Search_String=553.885&URL=0500-0599/0553/Sections/0553.885.html
There are many types of CO2 detectors available. Ten year, sealed-battery detectors never need battery replacements. The battery lasts for the life of the unit (typically a decade). They have easy-to-read displays, and they require no instillation. Plug-in detectors are as simple as their name. You plug it in, and it’s ready to protect you and your family. They even have back-up power installed in case your power goes out. As mentioned before, there are combination smoke and CO2 detectors available. There are even high-tech carbon monoxide detectors available with smart features.
Even if you’re not building a home or adding to your current living space, it’s a good idea to check and see if your smoke detector also has a CO2 function. If not, consider buying a new one or buying a separate CO2 detector. It’s always better to be safe than sorry, and a carbon monoxide detector can help give you peace of mind about keeping yourself and your family protected.
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