Carbon monoxide (CO) detectors should be placed with careful consideration to maximize safety and effective detection:

• Near sleeping areas: Place at least one CO detector outside each sleeping area to ensure the alarm will be heard if CO leaks overnight.
• On every level of the home: Include detectors on each floor, including basements and attic areas if they are finished or contain appliances.
• Inside or near attached garages: Place a detector near the door between the garage and the house, but not directly inside the garage.
• Near fuel-burning appliances: Position detectors within 10 to 20 feet (3 to 6 meters) of appliances like furnaces, gas stoves, fireplaces, or water heaters, but not directly next to them to avoid false alarms.
• In central areas: Hallways, living rooms, or large open spaces are good additional locations to monitor CO presence.

Regarding height, CO detectors can be mounted on the wall about 5 feet above the floor or at eye level. Alternatively, ceiling placement is acceptable as long as it’s about 12 inches away from walls. CO gas mixes evenly with air, so it is not necessary to place detectors low or near the floor. Avoid placing CO detectors near windows, fans, vents, bathrooms, kitchens, or humid areas to prevent interference or false alarms. Detectors should be placed where the alarm can be clearly heard throughout the home, especially in bedrooms.