Not every type of beep is an emergency, but all beeps should be addressed
A single beep from your carbon monoxide detector means the battery is running low and needs replacing to keep your home protected.
Continuous, rapid beeping signals dangerous carbon monoxide levels in your home and requires immediate evacuation and a 911 call for emergency response.
Malfunctioning detectors chirp every five to 15 minutes when they reach the end of their lifespan and need full replacement for safety.
Hiring a local handyman service professional takes the hassle out of battery changes on hard-to-reach detectors and keeps your family safe from carbon monoxide risks.
When your carbon monoxide (CO) detector starts beeping, it’s easy to assume the worst. Carbon monoxide gas has no odor, color, or taste. These alarms can help us identify a serious gas leak—but they also come equipped with a few non-emergency signals. Though the pattern of beeps depends on the brand, this guide will help you learn why your carbon monoxide alarm is beeping and what it might actually mean.
A single beep from your carbon monoxide detector means the battery is running low. Depending on the brand, this beep may repeat every 30 seconds to a minute or it could be at random intervals as the battery slowly drains. This is not the same thing as a continuous beep, which is an emergency.
To get rid of the beep and ensure you have a working carbon monoxide detector, change the battery ASAP. How long the battery lasts depends on the type of detector:
Hardwired: These carbon monoxide detectors only use a battery as a backup in case of a power outage. Change the battery annually to prevent beeping.
Standalone: Standalone carbon monoxide detectors aren’t connected to your home’s electricity, so they’ll rely solely on battery power. Change the battery every six months to a year.
Most carbon monoxide detectors take AA, 9-volt, or AAA batteries, but some newer models use lithium batteries. Lithium batteries can last up to a decade, so you’ll need to listen for a chirp to know when you need a replacement.
Carbon monoxide detectors can last anywhere from five to 10 years. At the end of their lifespan, they will start to malfunction. This will result in beeping. The typical pattern that points to a malfunction is three to four consecutive beeps every five to 15 minutes, depending on the brand.
If your carbon monoxide detector is malfunctioning, replace it immediately. You may also want to replace any other carbon monoxide detectors in your home that are of a similar age to avoid more malfunctions. If your detector is hardwired, you’ll need to call a pro. The cost of installing a smoke and CO detector is usually around $115.
When there’s a dangerous level of carbon monoxide in your home, your detector will set off an emergency alarm. This usually sounds like a continuous set of four beeps in rapid succession, but it depends on the manufacturer. Any continuous and rapid beeping could signal danger.
If you hear an emergency alarm, evacuate the building immediately, find fresh air, and call 911. Do not re-enter your home until emergency services confirm that it’s safe. According to the CDC, symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are often described as flu-like and include headaches, dizziness, weakness, upset stomach, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion.
You can change the battery on an easy-to-reach carbon monoxide detector on your own, but many are mounted on ceilings or toward the top of walls. If you don’t have a ladder or aren’t comfortable, a local handyperson can help swap out batteries on standalone detectors. If you need to replace a hardwired unit, it’s best to hire an electrician near you. DIYing electrical work can be hazardous, especially if you’re doing it on a ladder.
If there’s no longer an emergency or you’ve just replaced the battery, you may need to reset your CO detector to stop the beeping. You can reset a smart detector using an app on your phone. Reset a traditional carbon monoxide detector by following these steps:
Make sure the battery is in place
Locate the button on the device that says “silence,” “test,” or “reset”
Hold it down for 5 to 10 seconds
Release the button
Once it’s reset, the LED lights on the device will blink or turn on. Some devices may emit a beep.
I recently moved to another state and chose United Trust Van Lines after comparing several companies. Their team was punctual, professional, and extremely careful with my belongings. I was especially impressed with how they handled my home office setup and fragile items. Everything arrived on...
United Trust Van Lines, LLC1st Choice Renew is simply the best! We hired them for a complete home renovation, and they transformed our space into something truly amazing. The team attention to detail and commitment to quality were evident throughout the project. They were easy to work with, very responsive, and always...
Save A DimeI had Ace Fireplace Services install custom chimney caps for my home, and the results are stunning. They fit like a glove and have added a touch of sophistication to my chimney. I can't recommend their services enough.
Ace Fireplace ServicesExquisite workmanship from Custom Paint Jobs LLC. My home has never looked better.
Custom Paint Jobs, LLCI was concerned about my possessions safety throughout the move but Bridge View Van Lines took all necessary security measures to make sure everything arrived in mint shape I am really appreciative of their effort and commitment They made my long distance move seem simple
Bridgeview Van LinesWe needed windows in our home, and we couldnt believe we got our entire home done for under $14,000. We have a lot of windows, and not only was it affordable, but it got done in a timely manner! Thanks guys, I truly appreciate you all!
Window Depot USA of Central OhioWorking with Mike on our first home purchase was an absolute pleasure. Mike put us at ease and made the process of buying a home fun. Mike is knowledgeable, honest, professional, and punctual. He worked with our busy schedule and always made time for us. When a home came on the market that...
Michael Marshall - Buyer's Resource Realty Svcs.Before choosing a real estate agent, we conducted a lot of research to see who would be the best choice. Homes that Click stood out as the best Columbus has to offer: their rankings are excellent, their social media presence was strong, and I could tell they put a lot of work into their...
Homes That Click RealtorsFantastic! Top Line was early for the appointment and very knowledgeable and took time to explain everything they had found during the home inspection. The report included clearly defined issues and what they recommended to remedy the same. The report also included many pictures to help...
Top Line Home Inspections, LLCMary cleaning service does an amazing job cleaning my home. They go over and beyond the cleaning services that I have had in the past. They are very punctual and thorough with cleaning my home, I’m extremely happy with the service they provide and I highly recommend them.
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Tired of pesky smoke alarm beeps? They might signal a serious emergency—or a simple battery change. Learn how to silence those annoying beeps.
How often do you ask yourself, why does my fire alarm keep beeping? There are plenty of culprits behind such an issue and a number of easy fixes.
Want to protect your family and home against common household dangers? Compare carbon monoxide detectors and smoke detectors by weighing their pros and cons.
Conducting roof repairs or a roof replacement can, in rare cases, result in a buildup of carbon monoxide, which poses a danger to people in the home.
Wondering why your fridge is beeping with the door closed? Learn about the most common reasons and how to fix the problem for good.
Learn the differences between 12 different types of home security systems along with their pros, cons, costs, and purposes.
