5
Where should CO Alarms be
positioned?
CEILING MOUNTING
Preferred position in rooms containing a fuel
burning appliance
• 1-3m horizontally from the appliance
• At least 300mm from any wall and
obstructions (e.g. light fitting)
Wall Mounting Option
• 1-3m horizontally from appliance
• 150mm vertically down from ceiling
• Above the height of any doors
or windows
↔
↔
1-3m
300mm
min
300 mm min from walls
CO Alarm
Carbon Monoxide enters the sensor through
a gas diffusion hole.A Graphite filter prevents
any external contaminants from entering.A
Platinum sensing electrode catalyses the
oxidation of the CO.
Combining with the water present in the
electrolyte,this reaction causes the voltage
to rise. Consequently,a small current flows
between the two electrodes.
This output is directly proportional to the
amount of CO gas present.The microchip in
the unit activates the horn/LED/display to
give a warning applicable to the CO level
sensed.
Current
1
2
3
Locating and Positioning CO Alarms
Where should CO Alarms
be located?
BS EN 50292 the code of practice for the selection, installation,
use and maintenance of domestic CO alarms, recommends
the following location for CO Alarms:
• Install a CO Alarm in all rooms where there is a fuel burning
appliance
• If there is more than one appliance, but only one CO Alarm
is to be installed, the following priority list is recommended:
1. Rooms containing a flue-less or open-flued appliance
2. Rooms where occupants spend most time
3. Rooms in which the appliance is most used
4. If the dwelling is a bedsit the CO alarm should be
positioned away from the appliance,but close to the
sleeping area
CO Alarms should not be located:
• In an enclosed space e.g a cupboard
• Where it can be obstructed
• Directly above a sink
• Next to a door or window
• Next to an extractor fan or vent
• Where dirt & dust may block the sensor
• In a damp or humid location
• In the immediate vicinity of a cooking appliance
When only one CO Alarm is to be fitted,audibility of the
sounder may be a problem in other areas of the property - see
page 9 for information on how this can be overcome.
How do Ei CO Alarms Work?
Electrochemical Cell - Provides effective and responsive, long term detection