The simple answer is “yes.” Currently, Minnesota Statue 299F.50 states, “Every single-family dwelling and every dwelling unit in a multifamily dwelling must have an approved and operational carbon monoxide (CO) alarm installed within ten feet of each room lawfully used for sleeping purposes.” Newer construction homes typically have alarms installed in the appropriate locations. The inspectors at HomePro Inspections, however, have heard many misconceptions and misunderstandings surrounding the use of CO alarms in existing homes. Let me explain.
Carbon Monoxide
Combustible (fuel-fired) appliances in your home generate carbon monoxide (CO), an odorless, tasteless, and invisible gas. Low exposure levels to carbon monoxide can make you feel tired or sick, while higher levels of exposure can result in death.
Individuals with the highest risk of carbon monoxide exposure are the elderly, unborn babies, and small children. People with respiratory problems, heart conditions, anemia, and immunity issues are also at a higher risk of death due to exposure to carbon monoxide.
The Difference Between Carbon Monoxide (CO) and Carbon Dioxide (CO2)
One carbon atom and one oxygen atom make up carbon monoxide, hence the designation CO. People often incorrectly refer to carbon monoxide as CO2. CO2 is carbon dioxide, which has one carbon atom and two oxygen atoms. CO2 is the gas we exhale. It is also used to make pop and other beverages fizzy. Remember, carbon monoxide is abbreviated as CO. Our home inspectors can discuss this difference at your home inspection.
CO Alarm versus CO Detector
A CO alarm, the device typically placed in a home, has its own power source and sounds an alarm that alerts inhabitants to elevated CO levels. A CO detector is basically the same type of device, but it may or may not include an audible alarm function.
A CO detector is a common tool a home inspector uses to determine if furnaces, water heaters, fireplaces, etc., potentially leak CO into the living space. We also use a device to measure the air-free carbon monoxide levels in your furnace discharge vent to detect potential combustion issues, such as a cracked heat exchanger.
Minnesota Carbon Monoxide Codes and Statutes
Minnesota Carbon Monoxide Codes and Statutes
There’s a lot of code language involved, so let me summarize the basics. A device must be
· listed in accordance to UL 2034.
· installed in new homes that utilize fuel-fired appliances.
· installed when there’s an attached garage with an opening to the living space.
· added to existing homes when listed additions, alterations, or repairs are made.
· located on every level and within 10 feet of sleeping areas.
· located within the sleeping area if a fuel-fired appliance is present.
Also,
· Combination smoke/CO alarms are acceptable.
· Unless retrofitting, an alarm must be hardwired.
If you have multiple alarms, you must interconnect them, unless you are retrofitting
Carbon Monoxide Alarms
Again, this is just a summary. Read the full carbon monoxide code requirements and statutes:
· You can find Minnesota’s carbon monoxide code requirements here:
· Section R315 of the MN Residential Code.
· The Minnesota carbon monoxide statutes can be found here:
· Sections 299F.50 and 299F.51
· For additional EPA guidance regarding carbon monoxide alarms, click on the following:
· What about carbon monoxide detectors?
· Where should I place a carbon monoxide detector?
Summary
Tragically, the absence of carbon monoxide alarms continues to cause deaths every year. These devices are easy to acquire and install, and they are required to help keep us alive. For your family's safety, ensure you have them properly installed and replaced if they are old or not functioning. Check your carbon monoxide alarms to ensure they are not past their service life. Our home inspectors will recommend replacing your carbon monoxide alarms if they are more than 7 years old. Manufacturers recommend 7 to 10 years.
Also, be aware of the warning signs of carbon monoxide poisoning, such as headaches, dizziness, feeling sick, and/or lack of energy. Low levels of carbon monoxide in small areas may cause these symptoms in some people before the alarm alerts them to a bigger problem.
At HomePro Inspections, our home inspectors are trained to inspect all areas of the home. Your home inspection report documents any issues found and recommends their resolution by you or a qualified professional.
Visit our website to learn more or to schedule your home inspection in the Rochester, Owatonna, and Faribault, MN areas. You can contact us today at (507) 202-8942 or use our online “Schedule Now” feature to schedule an appointment.