How to Test a Carbon Monoxide Detector

Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that cannot be seen. Fuel-burning appliances in your home produce the carbon monoxide, which is not harmful unless something prevents the gas from venting properly. Having a carbon monoxide detector in your home is an excellent safety measure. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends putting a carbon monoxide detector in the hallway of each sleeping area. Testing your carbon monoxide detector is essential to keeping your family safe. You can test your carbon monoxide detector in a few quick steps.

Things You'll Need

• Carbon monoxide detector

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Instructions

1. • 1

     Find the test button on your carbon monoxide detector. It is usually on the front of the detector.

   • 2

     Press and hold the test button down for at least 20 seconds.

   • 3

     Listen for the beeping that tells you the carbon monoxide detector works.

   • 4

     Release the button.

   • 5

     Repair or replace your carbon monoxide detector immediately if it fails the test.