*** Attention: Current axle delivery time has decreased by Dexter to up to 6 weeks ***                                                                                                                                                                                         *** Attention: Current axle delivery time has decreased by Dexter to up to 6 weeks ***

Carbon Monoxide Detector Saves Lives on RV Trip

With so many newbies embracing the RV Lifestyle, it becomes very important to talk about the CO detectors in RVs. Besides, even long-time RVers need to know more about detecting carbon monoxide in their RV and ensure that all their carbon dioxide appliances are well maintained.

Carbon monoxide detectors are essential for every home, but what about your vehicle? Camping season is here, so you will likely spend some time in RV. Carbon monoxide detectors are inexpensive and can be purchased at most hardware stores or online. 

Whether during the winter or if you want to travel in your RV, safety is very important to make your journey more pleasurable. But no matter how much fun you're having, carbon monoxide poisoning can ruin your trip and even kill you if left unnoticed! Prioritize investing in a carbon monoxide detector (like the First Alert CO615 Battery Powered Carbon Monoxide and Smoke Detector with Digital Display). It can tell you whether your levels are too high so that you can take action immediately and get everyone out alive.

Carbon monoxide has no color, taste, or smell—making it extremely difficult to detect. So a carbon monoxide detector on the RV bedroom ceiling is very important as it would alert you if dangerous levels of carbon dioxide are present so you can get out safely. 

Built-in generators, Portable camp stoves, Gas-powered heaters, Gas ranges or ovens, Portable generators, and gas water heaters are some of the appliances in your RV that can leak carbon monoxide. If you have any of the appliances in your RV, you can be exposed to carbon monoxide at any point. 

# If you have any doubts or you think there is an issue with your appliances – take them to get inspected by a certified professional.

Apart from the risks located inside your RV, there can also be risks around your RV while camping. So, you must be careful about the items that emit CO in your RV and around it. Including your neighbors' equipment! 

Some RVs have a carbon monoxide detector installed in addition to smoke detectors. Carbon monoxide is released from vehicle exhausts and can be fatal if undetected. A CO detector will alert you to dangerous levels of carbon monoxide if they are present in your RV. Since these detectors detect CO and smoke simultaneously, you should get one installed in your RV bedroom ceiling at the earliest.

A carbon monoxide detector is crucial for detecting life-threatening levels of CO, but they typically last only a few years. Most CO detectors are designed to have a 5 to 7-year lifespan (with some lasting ten years).

Why is a carbon monoxide detector important?

Carbon monoxide detectors, which are used to detect carbon monoxide, protect people who may be vulnerable to the effects of this poisonous gas. When carbon monoxide gets into the body, it bonds with hemoglobin in red blood cells and stops these cells from carrying oxygen to various parts of the body where it's needed. This can lead to dizziness, headaches, tiredness, shortness of breath, nausea in mild cases, or unconsciousness and death in more severe cases if left untreated. Your responsibility is to keep your family safe by maintaining a fully functional carbon dioxide detector inside your RV. 

You must frequently check your RV Carbon monoxide alarm to ensure its operation. If you have a battery-operated CO detector, you should replace the batteries every six months (or on the indication of a low battery). 

If you have a hard-wired RV carbon monoxide detector, you should check it monthly to ensure it's operational. Most RV carbon monoxide detectors will have a one-press "test" button to signal that the detector is operational. 

What is carbon monoxide?

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a by-product of many household appliances and industrial processes. It is sometimes called the silent killer because its odorless, colorless, and tasteless properties make it difficult to detect. Carbon monoxide levels are often highest in enclosed areas such as cars, recreational vehicles (RVs), and indoor spaces.

What is the best way to detect carbon monoxide?

One way is to buy a carbon monoxide detector, an electronic device that will alert you to dangerous levels of carbon monoxide in your home. Some models even include an intercom letting you communicate from one room to another with those who are sleeping or somewhere else in your house while they are wearing earphones and listening to voice messages over their FM receivers. You will have a safety net with a carbon monoxide detector in place.

Where do I place the CO detector in my RV?

It is recommended that CO detectors be placed near bedrooms because a build-up of carbon dioxide is likely to cause drowsiness, leading to unintended injuries. CO is more dangerous than oxygen deficiency because it causes an increased heart rate and can prevent you from sleeping. It's also best to place your CO detector above your head in case you fall asleep when there is an increase in carbon dioxide levels in your RV. If your RV carbon monoxide detector keeps going off frequently, then it's critical to know the exact reason and get it repaired or replaced.

Carbon monoxide detectors should be placed in areas such as bathrooms and hallways, with a clear line of sight to bedrooms. Drivers should also keep a carbon monoxide detector in their cabins. While it's true that most RVs don't give off toxic gases, gas appliances do emit small amounts of CO into living spaces.  

Do RV appliances emit carbon monoxide?

Common culprits that contribute to the danger of carbon monoxide poisoning: Ranges, Lanterns, Heaters, Generators, the towing vehicle (if you have an RV trailer), Refrigerators, Camping stoves, Grills, and any fuel-burning source.