A carbon monoxide detector is something that every home should have installed. They are very easy to install and can end up saving the lives of you and your family. Before you buy a carbon monoxide detectors there are a few things you should consider.

First you should consider why you should get a carbon monoxide detector. In your home there are many ways in which carbon monoxide is released. If too much carbon monoxide is released it can cause damage to your lungs and even death. Some items that can create carbon monoxide in your home include: fireplaces, heaters, hot water heaters, gas stoves, vehicles, grills and dryers.

All carbon monoxide detectors that have been tested and approved will work well for your household. However, there are a few key elements you need to consider when purchasing a carbon monoxide detector for your home. Certain detectors can be more sensitive to carbon monoxide than other detectors.

This means that you should get a carbon monoxide detector that can alarm at lower levels for maximum protection in your home. To do this you should buy a carbon monoxide detector that has a memory. Battery operated carbon monoxide detectors are easier to place, but if you don't want to worry about replacing batteries then you should go for a plug-in carbon monoxide detector.

Once you have purchased your carbon monoxide detector it is important that you place it in the right area. If you are planning on only adding one carbon monoxide detector in your home then it should be near a sleeping area. If you purchase additional detectors they should be placed on ever level of the house and at least one per bedroom for the maximum protection coverage.

You should never install your carbon monoxide detector above any fuel burning appliance since they can emit small amounts of carbon monoxide when you start them causing the detector to go off often. You also shouldn't place your carbon monoxide detector within fifteen feet of any heating or cooking appliances or near humid areas like the bathroom.

Follow the guidelines below when considering where to place your carbon monoxide detectors:
- Place near the bedroom or a room where people spend a lot of time such as the living room or main hallway.
- Make sure you place the carbon monoxide detector near where you can hear the alarm and where the alarm can be easily seen.
- It is a good idea to read the instructions that come with your alarm carefully and consult the company if you have any questions.
- Never place a carbon monoxide detector in the garage, a furnace room or near a cooking stove.
- Never place a carbon monoxide detector in a place with dead air, the corner of a room, near the floor or at the peak of a vaulted ceiling. Carbon monoxide will not fall or rise within the air column.
- Never place near open doors or windows.
- Don't place in an area that is excessively cold, hot, dry or damp.
- Don't have any cloth or plastic covering the carbon monoxide detector at any time.