The installation location of a combined carbon monoxide (CO) and combustible gas detector should be determined based on the characteristics of both gases (density, diffusion pattern, etc.) and potential leak sources to ensure timely and accurate monitoring. Specific installation recommendations are as follows:
I. Core Installation Principles
☞ Regarding Carbon Monoxide (CO)
▶CO is a colorless, odorless gas with a density similar to (slightly lighter than) air. It is typically produced by incomplete combustion of fuel (e.g., gas water heaters, wall-mounted boilers, gas stoves, coal-fired equipment, etc.) and diffuses evenly in the air.
▶Installation Height: The recommended installation height is 1.5-1.8 meters above the ground (similar to human breathing height). Avoid close to the floor or ceiling (since its density is similar to air, extreme heights are not necessary).
☞ Regarding flammable gases (such as natural gas and liquefied petroleum gas)
▶ Natural gas (primarily methane) is lighter than air and will drift upwards if leaked.
▶ Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG, primarily propane and butane) is heavier than air and will sink to low-lying areas if leaked.
▶ The installation height should be adjusted based on the gas type (if the detector does not clearly distinguish between them, refer to common gas types first).
II. Specific Installation Location Recommendations
☞ Around gas equipment (Primary Areas)
▶ Near gas stoves/gas cooktops: Install above the stovetop (natural gas) or in a cabinet below (liquefied petroleum gas), within 1-3 meters of the equipment, avoiding direct exposure to flames (to prevent high temperatures).
▶ Near gas water heaters/wall-mounted boilers: These appliances are high-risk sources of CO and flammable gases. Install the device 1-2 meters directly above (natural gas) or below (liquefied petroleum gas), away from the exhaust vent (to avoid interference from exhaust gases).
▶Near gas pipe connections/valves: Especially in areas with concentrated pipes, such as kitchens and balconies, to detect possible leaks.
☞Enclosed or poorly ventilated spaces
▶Kitchen: Most gas appliances are concentrated here, and ventilation can be unstable during cooking. It is recommended to install the detector in the middle of the kitchen or on a wall near the appliances (height depends on the gas type).
▶Bathroom (if gas appliances are present): If a gas water heater is installed in the bathroom, install the detector approximately 1.5 meters above the floor (CO tends to accumulate in enclosed spaces). However, ensure the detector is waterproof.
▶Basement/Cellar: If gas appliances (such as wall-mounted boilers) are used or fuel is stored, due to poor ventilation and the tendency of liquefied petroleum gas to sink, install the detector 30-50 cm above the floor (for heavy, flammable gases). Also, install the CO detector at breathing height.
▶Garage: If the garage contains gas boilers, generators, or other equipment, install the detector near the equipment to avoid confusion between vehicle exhaust and gas leaks (some detectors can distinguish between them, but they must be kept away from vehicle exhaust vents).
☞Key Locations in Living Areas
▶Bedroom Doorways/Hallways: CO is colorless and odorless, and leaks at night can easily cause poisoning while sleeping. Installing near the bedroom provides a timely warning (height 1.5-1.8 meters).
▶Living Room/Dwelling Room: If the space is large, install the sensor on the wall near the gas equipment to ensure comprehensive gas monitoring.
☞Avoid Installation Locations
▶Areas exposed to water or steam (such as directly above the sink or shower area), unless the device is waterproof;
▶Areas exposed to direct sunlight, high temperatures (such as near heaters), or low temperatures (such as near refrigerators) to avoid affecting sensor accuracy;
▶Areas with high dust and smoke (such as directly under range hoods) to prevent sensor blockage;
▶Ventils and windows (gas can be easily dispersed, leading to missed detections).
III. Summary
▶Priority Areas: Within 1-3 meters of gas equipment (stoves, water heaters, boilers). Adjust the height based on the gas type (light gases above, heavy gases below), while ensuring CO detection at breathing height.
▶ Auxiliary areas: Enclosed spaces (basements, bathrooms), and near bedrooms to ensure safe coverage of areas where people move around.
▶ Additional detection points may be appropriate based on the specific gas type used and the distribution of appliances. Especially in multi-story buildings or large spaces, it is recommended to install at least one detector in each independent area (such as the kitchen, basement, and bedroom) to ensure comprehensive safety.