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Why is my carbon monoxide detector going off intermittently?

My carbon monoxide detector keeps going off intermittently, seemingly for no reason. What could the problem be?

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Melanie Mergen · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Several things could make a carbon monoxide detector go off without good reason. To keep your carbon monoxide detector from going off intermittently, make sure it’s clean, has fresh batteries, and is in an ideal location in your home.
If what you’re describing is occasional chirping, you may need to clean it or replace the batteries. If you’ve done this and it’s still giving you false alarms, it may be time to replace it.
Should you mean the detector is sounding off full-blown false alarms, these are a few factors that could be contributing:
  • Exposure to excess moisture or smoke
  • Old age
  • Location (should be in clean, smoke-free, non-humid areas out of direct sunlight)
  • Time to replace batteries
To reduce false alarms:
  • Test and clean your carbon monoxide detector monthly
  • If battery-powered, replace batteries twice a year
  • Replace the detector if excess dirt and grime can’t be cleaned or if it’s otherwise faulty
Please remember that carbon monoxide exposure can be fatal, so if you’re unsure if it’s a false alarm, you should still evacuate your home and call 911.
Your carbon monoxide detector is vital for keeping your household safe, and so is being covered by the right insurance policy.
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