When it comes to your family you think about locks on doors, security systems, and smoke detectors. But there’s another silent threat that every homeowner in West Palm Beach, FL, should take seriously: carbon monoxide (CO). This colorless, odorless gas can be deadly—and the only way to detect it is with a carbon monoxide detector.
At Hi-Tech Plumbing & Air, we’ve seen the damage of carbon monoxide exposure. That’s why we educate homeowners in West Palm Beach and surrounding areas on the importance of installing and maintaining CO detectors. In this post we’ll cover why they’re necessary, how they work and best practices to keep your home safe.
What Is Carbon Monoxide and Why Is It Bad?
Carbon monoxide is a byproduct of burning fuel. Common household sources include:
- Gas furnaces
- Water heaters
- Gas stoves and ovens
- Fireplaces
- Generators
When these appliances are properly vented and maintained CO is carried safely out of your home. But if there’s a leak, blockage or malfunction CO can build up indoors—and that’s when the danger begins.
Why CO Is Called the Silent Killer
Unlike natural gas, carbon monoxide has no smell, taste or color, making it impossible to detect without an alarm. Exposure can cause:
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Confusion
- Loss of consciousness
- Death in severe cases
In fact the CDC reports over 400 people die annually in the U.S. from accidental CO poisoning, thousands more are hospitalized.
Why West Palm Beach Homeowners Need CO Detectors
Some homeowners think carbon monoxide isn’t an issue in South Florida because we don’t use heaters as much. But that’s a dangerous myth. Many homes in West Palm Beach still have gas appliances, fireplaces and backup generators, all of which can emit CO if something goes wrong.
Plus during hurricane season when power outages occur people use portable generators indoors or too close to the home—a major source of CO poisoning. Installing detectors is the best defense.
How Carbon Monoxide Detectors Work
Carbon monoxide detectors measure the concentration of CO in the air. When levels become dangerous they sound an alarm before symptoms set in. There are three main types:
- Battery operated detectors – Easy to install anywhere.
- Plug-in detectors with battery backup – Great for extra reliability.
- Hardwired detectors – Often integrated with smoke alarms for whole home protection.
For best coverage we recommend installing at least one detector on every level of your home, especially near bedrooms and fuel-burning appliances.
Benefits of CO Detectors in Your Home
1. Life Saving
This is the most important reason: CO detectors save lives. An early warning gives you and your family time to get out and call for help before it’s too late.
2. Peace of Mind
Knowing your home is protected from an invisible threat reduces stress—especially if you have children, elderly family members or pets who may not recognize symptoms.
3. Code Compliance
Many insurance providers and local building codes require CO detectors in homes with fuel-burning appliances. Installing them ensures compliance and protects your investment.
4. Affordable Safety
CO detectors are relatively inexpensive especially compared to the cost of medical emergencies or home repairs after a CO incident. Professional installation ensures they work correctly and are placed in the right locations.
Maintenance Tips for CO Detectors
Once you have detectors installed maintenance is key:
- Test detectors monthly using the test button.
- Replace batteries at least once a year (or as indicated by the manufacturer).
- Replace detectors every 5–7 years as sensors wear out over time.
- Schedule annual HVAC and appliance inspections with Hi-Tech Plumbing & Air to prevent CO leaks.
How Hi-Tech Plumbing & Air Helps Protect Your Home
At Hi-Tech Plumbing & Air we don’t just install CO detectors—we help you create a complete home safety plan. Our services include:
- Professional CO detector installation
- HVAC inspections and maintenance to prevent leaks
- Gas appliance checks for safety and efficiency
- Emergency response for CO related issues As West Palm Beach residents we understand the special needs of South Florida homes. Whether you live in Palm Beach Gardens, Boynton Beach, Delray Beach or anywhere in between we’re here to help your family.
Schedule Your CO Detector Today
Don’t take chances with carbon monoxide. It’s invisible, odorless and deadly—but preventable with the right precautions. The team at Hi-Tech Plumbing & Air in West Palm Beach, FL is here to help you protect your home and family.
Call us or book online today for CO detector installation and home safety services. Your family’s safety shouldn’t be left to chance.