Carbon Monoxide Alarms

Carbon monoxide alarms are safety devices that detect dangerous levels of carbon monoxide gas. They sound an audible and visual warning to alert occupants before exposure becomes harmful.

Yes. Carbon monoxide alarms are legally required in rental properties and buildings with fuel-burning appliances, depending on location and usage. Building regulations specifies the type of carbon monoxide alarm that should be installed with a fuel-burning appliance in England and Wales. In Scotland, it is a legal requirement for any room with a carbon-fuelled appliance or flue (eg. gasboiler or log burner) to have a carbon monoxide alarm.

Carbon monoxide alarms should be installed in rooms with fuel-burning appliances or flues such as boilers, gas fires, or stoves, and near sleeping areas. Always follow the manufacturer’s installation guidance. The regulations vary depending on which part of the UK you are located, however regardless of regulations, it is best practice to follow these guidelines to protect home occupants.

No, in most instances carbon monoxide alarms do not have to be mains powered. Carbon monoxide alarms are available in battery-powered, sealed-for-life, and mains-powered versions. The correct choice depends on your building type, installation preference and the regulations that apply for your location.

Most carbon monoxide alarms have a lifespan of between 7 and 10 years, depending on the sensor technology used. The alarm should be replaced once it reaches the end of its stated life. Every alarm should feature a replace-by date that allows you to see when the sensor has degraded and it is time to replace the alarm.

Yes. Carbon monoxide alarms are suitable for workplaces, commercial buildings, and public spaces where fuel-burning appliances are present, or where the build-up of exhaust fumes may occur. This supports your health and safety obligations.

The right carbon monoxide alarms should be selected based on positioning and room layout, power source preference, and any legal or insurance requirements. Requirements for the type of carbon monoxide alarm vary depending on which area of the UK you live, what type of appliance you have and whether your home is rented or owned. There are also specific travel-certified carbon monoxide alarms that are available for using on holiday, when camping, boating or caravanning. Always choose a carbon monoxide alarm that meets British Standards to ensure quality and reliability.

Yes - carbon monoxide alarms should be tested regularly using the test button and kept free from dust. Battery-powered models may require battery replacement unless sealed-for-life.

Yes, in many cases they are. Landlords in England must fit one in any room with a fixed combustion appliance under the 2022 regulations. Scotland requires them in all homes with a carbon-fuelled appliance or flue. Wales and Northern Ireland have their own rules. If you own your home, Building Regulations require one whenever a new or replacement combustion appliance is installed.

Yes, they are a smart choice for most people. The battery is built in and lasts the life of the alarm, so there's nothing to replace and no risk of it going flat. Government guidance recommends sealed-for-life alarms, and over time, they work out cheaper than buying replacement batteries every year.

They are more informative. Both types sound at 50 parts per million as the British Standard requires, but a digital alarm shows you the live CO reading at all times, so you can see any low-level build-up before it reaches that threshold. If you have older appliances or just want extra reassurance, a digital model is well worth it.