Do I Need A Carbon Monoxide Alarm For Fireplaces?
Most homeowners in the UK have already fitted combined carbon monoxide and smoke alarms in their homes. Fireplace showrooms often encourage you to purchase a separate monitor as this life saving device is a wonderful way to protect your family and home. Carbon monoxide monitors will bleep once they detect harmful vapour and alert you to this dangerous and harmful Odourless lethal gas
Do you need one with your fireplace?
1. In our opinion fitting a carbon monoxide monitor near your gas fireplace or solid fuel wood burning stove is essential. Document J of the current building regulations now states that a carbon monoxide monitor should be provided and fitted in the room where the appliance is located. Hence to comply with building regulations you must ensure you have a carbon monoxide monitor for solid fuel applications. If you do not follow this requirement, then you will also invalidate your home insurance policyOther useful tips
1. It is essential to always still have your home checked by a qualified engineer on a regular basis to ensure there are no carbon monoxide leaks. A routine inspection (typically annually) would highlight any parts that need replacing and ensure that there are no leaks
2. If your carbon monoxide alarm rings you should immediately call the gas emergency services 0800 111 999 and open any doors and windows to create ventilation. It is also advisable to switch off any appliances whenever possible 
