The public, and many professionals, do not understand how CO detectors operate. Differing technologies are used in CO detectors. Response time, concentrations that cause alarm activation, and the time to clear vary widely. Several homeowners were mistakenly told they had a defective alarm by investigators who did not understand the detector characteristics. Determining the cause of carbon monoxide in a dwelling requires proper equipment and training.
Carbon monoxide is colorless, odorless, tasteless, and non-irritating.
Equipment to detect CO in the ambient air and the flue is absolutely vital for any investigation. Finding a source and determining the cause of elevated carbon monoxide concentrations requires a thorough understanding of combustion processes and air movement. The house must be considered as a system. Not all professionals have the necessary equipment and training. ISU investigations into CO incidents found heating contractors, gas suppliers, fire departments and first responders with no carbon monoxide equipment responding to incidents of CO detector activation.