Whenever a flame touches a surface that is cooler than the ignition temperature of the gaseous part of the flame, carbon monoxide may result. Notorious in this respect are hot water heaters. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that has about the same specific weight of air. Therefore, in its put states, it cannot be detected by human sensory organs and it will disperse evenly in air. To protect against its insidious nature, carbon monoxide detectors are needed.
Detectors provide that added safety factor needed to protect human life.
There are numerous carbon monoxide detectors on the market. They range from hand-held or fixed, industrial units to fixed, household units. The Nighthawk unit is an example of a unit that has detector readout capabilities. It is often better to know the level you are dealing with to determine your response action. The problem arises when levels exceed 35 PPM and are maintained.