The web Browser you are currently using is unsupported, and some features of this site may not work as intended. Please update to a modern browser such as Chrome, Firefox or Edge to experience all features Michigan.gov has to offer.
CO Detectors
Homepage | CO Information | CO Topics | CO Data | More CO Resources | CO Partners | Media
CO levels and health.
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, CO health effects depend on the CO concentration or parts per million (ppm), exposure length and each individual's health. The following can happen at different CO concentrations:
- 1-70 ppm: Some people will have symptoms.
- 70-150 ppm: As CO levels increase and remain above 70 ppm, symptoms become more noticeable and can include headache, fatigue and nausea.
- 150-200 ppm: At sustained CO concentrations above 150 to 200 ppm, more severe symptoms are possible, including disorientation, unconsciousness and death.
Different types of CO detectors.
- Standard CO detectors: Most CO detectors alert when CO reaches 70ppm for at least 60 minutes. Detectors are required to alert more quickly when higher levels of CO are detected. Some models may alert at lower levels, but most do not alert below 30ppm. These requirements meet the current UL 2034 safety standard.
- Personal CO detectors: These CO detectors are designed so you can easily transport, clip or wear them. Personal CO detectors will sound from 5-35ppm depending on the model. These devices may not adhere to UL 2034 standards and should not be relied upon as a primary method of CO detection in homes or businesses. They can alert you to the presence of CO when you are away from home or at temporary locations. These detectors are compact and lightweight. You can clip them on your clothing or a gear bag.
Note: Designed for individuals who are visually impaired, hearing impaired, deaf, blind or elderly, the bed shaker is designed to interconnect with smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, vibration sensors, doorbells and other accessibility devices.
Install and maintain CO detectors.
- Install 10-year lithium battery CO detectors on all levels of your home and near all sleeping areas to alert you of CO. CO detectors save lives!
- Test CO detectors monthly.
- If not a lithium battery CO detector, replace alkaline batteries twice a year. An easy way to remember is during time changes (spring and fall).
- Replace your CO detector according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Need help getting a CO detector?
If you need a CO detector you can contact your local fire department to see if they are available. MI Prevention works with local fire departments to supply alarms for installation. MI Prevention has been installing smoke alarms and CO detectors since 2018 across the State of Michigan. The MI Prevention data page shares statistics on how many alarms have been installed.