The Silent Killer in Your Home
Carbon monoxide (CO) is called the "silent killer" for good reason. This odorless, colorless gas claims over 400 American lives each year, with thousands more hospitalized. Winter—when homes are sealed tight and heating systems run constantly—is peak danger season.
First Choice Electric urges every St. Charles County homeowner to verify their CO protection today.
Why Winter Increases CO Risk
Heating System Hazards
| Source | CO Risk Factor |
|---|---|
| Gas furnaces | Cracked heat exchangers |
| Gas water heaters | Improper venting |
| Fireplaces | Blocked chimneys |
| Portable heaters | Indoor use of outdoor units |
| Generators | Running in garages |
| Attached garages | Car exhaust seeping inside |
Sealed Homes Trap CO
Modern energy efficiency works against you when CO is present:
- Weather stripping prevents fresh air infiltration
- Closed windows eliminate natural ventilation
- Tight building envelopes concentrate gases
- Running exhaust fans can create negative pressure, drawing CO inside
Carbon Monoxide Detector Requirements
Missouri Code Requirements
Missouri law requires CO detectors in:
- Every dwelling with fuel-burning appliances
- Homes with attached garages
- All rental properties
Recommended Placement
For maximum protection, install CO detectors:
- On every level of your home
- Near sleeping areas (within 10 feet of bedroom doors)
- Near attached garages
- Near fuel-burning appliances (but not too close—follow manufacturer guidelines)
Height matters: CO mixes with air evenly, so detectors can be placed at any height. However, combination smoke/CO detectors should follow smoke detector placement rules (ceiling or high on walls).
Testing Your CO Detectors
Monthly Testing Procedure
- Press and hold the test button
- Listen for the alarm pattern
- Verify the alarm is loud enough to wake sleeping family members
- Check the digital display (if equipped) for proper readings
Replacement Schedule
| Detector Type | Replace Every |
|---|---|
| Battery-only | 5-7 years |
| Hardwired with battery backup | 7-10 years |
| Combination smoke/CO | 7-10 years |
Check the manufacture date on the back of your detector. If you can't find it or read it, replace the unit.
Signs of Carbon Monoxide Exposure
Symptoms (often mistaken for flu)
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Confusion
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath
Warning Signs in Your Home
- Stale or stuffy air
- Excessive moisture on windows
- Yellow or orange furnace flame (should be blue)
- Soot around appliances
- Pilot lights that frequently go out
If Your CO Detector Alarms
Take it seriously. Every time.
- Do not ignore it - Even if no one feels sick
- Get everyone outside - Including pets
- Call 911 - Fire department will test for CO
- Don't re-enter until cleared by professionals
- Have appliances inspected before using again
Professional CO Detector Installation
First Choice Electric provides:
- Hardwired CO detector installation - More reliable than battery-only
- Combination smoke/CO units - Streamlined protection
- Interconnected systems - When one alarms, all alarm
- Smart detector installation - Phone alerts when you're away
Protect Your Family This Winter
Don't gamble with carbon monoxide. Call First Choice Electric at (636) 240-2966 to ensure your St. Charles County home has proper CO detection installed and functioning.
Your family's safety is worth the call.