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Can A Carbon Monoxide Detector Detect A Gas Leak In Portland

Vivint CO2 Monitor in Portland

One of the jobs you should to perform as a homeowner is to safeguard you, your family, and your property from disasters like break-ins, floods, and fires. You could also fret about dangers that reside in the very air you breathe. When it comes to these unseen threats, you could be wondering if a CO detector will find a gas leak in Portland.

The quick answer is "They will not," but carbon monoxide detectors should still be an important part of your family’s home security system. Here's what you have to understand when monitoring against gas that could invade your home.

CO and natural gas are different

While natural gas and CO might be linked, it's vital to understand the difference between them. A natural gas leak can occur in many places, definitely where your gas line enters your building and within the space that houses your furnace. These types of leaks can be a hazard since natural gas can be flammable, and there’s a huge possibility of an explosion or fire. Of course, you will likely notice leaks quickly because of the additive that produces a rotten-egg odor. If you find the smell you you should get a hold of emergency services directly and evacuate the scene.

Carbon Monoxide Is Unscented, Ghost Threat To Your Health

Carbon Monoxide is a dangerous gas that's a byproduct of incomplete or improper burning of fuel. It usually shows up to your house with a malfunctioning furnace, clothes dryer, or gas fireplace. While CO isn’t as excitable as natural gas, it is still combustible. But the more concerning threat is with your health. Carbon monoxide won’t have the smell additives that are in natural gas, resulting in an odorless "silent killer."

CO prevents your brain from getting the O2 it needs

After carbon monoxide come into your lungs, it prevents blood cells from transporting the oxygen your need for life. Essentially, carbon monoxide can suffocate you, and it's extremely toxic to children and babies who might breathe more rapidly and whose lungs are still developing. When you experience carbon monoxide poisoning, you might have dizziness, headaches, nausea, and shortness of breath. Extended exposure may lead to passing out or death.

CO detectors are one of the most important safety or security devices

While a carbon monoxide detector won’t detect a gas leak in Portland, it may save your life by notifying you to this odorless and deadly byproduct. The largest problem happens in the evening when you are in bed, as you likely won't notice what's the problem. Then again, even if you're awake, you may know that carbon monoxide has come into your home.

So equate a CO detector like a smoke detector. Place these devices high up on the walls or ceiling as CO can rise up. Each level of your residence should use at least one device. And it's highly suggested to put one them near bedrooms. Also, you should test your carbon monoxide detectors every month.

Integrate your CO detectors with your smart security system

When you integrate your carbon monoxide detector with your home security system, you stack another layer of security. Not only will you enjoy accurate carbon monoxide detection, but you can also get smartphone texts and a fast response from your dedicated 24-hour monitoring​ team. Monitoring is definitely wanted with a CO problem, as they’ll make sure rescue will come even if you aren’t able make it to the phone yourself.

Safeguard your home with the latest in CO detection

Will a carbon monoxide detector detect a gas leak in Portland? No, but a CO detector will still protect your family. Contact Vivint at (503) 213-9485 or fill out the form below to build your smart home, complete with monitored carbon monoxide detectors.