Replace CO detector batteries
Short answer
Each fall, replace the battery in every CO detector and press the test button to confirm it's working.
Why It Matters
Carbon monoxide is odorless and deadly; a non-functional detector offers no warning when a furnace or appliance malfunctions.
Tools
- Step stool (if mounted high)
Materials
- Replacement batteries (check each unit's label for size)
How to Do It
- Locate every CO detector in the home, including any combo smoke/CO units.
- Remove each detector from its mount or open the battery compartment according to the unit's design.
- Replace the old battery with a fresh one of the correct size, as labeled on the unit.
- Press the test button and hold it until the detector beeps to confirm it's working.
- If you have combo smoke/CO detectors, coordinate this task with your annual smoke detector battery replacement so both functions are covered at the same time.
Related Tasks
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