A sudden beeping from your carbon monoxide (CO) detector is never something to ignore. Whether it’s an occasional chirp or a loud, continuous alarm, it’s your detector’s way of alerting you to potential danger—or at least a necessary maintenance issue.
If you’re a homeowner in Fort Smith, Van Buren, Alma, or Greenwood, AR, this guide will help you understand why your carbon monoxide detector is beeping, what to do about it, and how Riverside Comfort Care Heating & Air can help protect your home and family.
What Is Carbon Monoxide and Why Is It Dangerous?
Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas created by burning fuels such as natural gas, propane, oil, wood, and coal. It’s often called the “silent killer” because it’s virtually undetectable without an alarm.
Prolonged exposure to carbon monoxide can lead to:
Headaches
Dizziness
Nausea
Shortness of breath
Confusion
Loss of consciousness or death in high doses
🔗 CDC: Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Basics
Why Is My Carbon Monoxide Detector Beeping?
There are several common reasons your CO detector may be beeping—and not all of them mean you’re in immediate danger. Here’s how to interpret the different sounds:
1. Continuous Loud Beeping (Every Few Seconds)
This indicates a dangerous level of carbon monoxide is present.
What to do:
Immediately evacuate your home
Call 911 or your local fire department
Do not re-enter until emergency services declare it safe
Once the danger has passed, call Riverside Comfort Care to inspect and service your HVAC system, water heater, or other potential sources of CO leaks.
2. Intermittent Beeping (Every 30–60 Seconds)
This usually signals a low battery or end-of-life warning for the detector.
What to do:
Replace the battery if possible
If beeping continues, replace the entire unit
Check the manufacturer’s label for lifespan—most CO detectors last 5–10 years
3. Beeping Followed by Voice Alert
Some models include a voice that says “Carbon Monoxide Detected” or “Low Battery.”
Follow the same steps as above depending on the message. Refer to your CO detector manual for specific model information.
🔗 EPA: Carbon Monoxide in Homes
Common Sources of Carbon Monoxide in Your Home
In Arkansas homes, CO buildup can come from:
Gas furnaces
Gas stoves or ovens
Fireplaces (wood or gas)
Water heaters
Running vehicles in attached garages
Portable generators or grills used indoors
If your home has any of these appliances, it’s critical to have them inspected annually.
🔧 Schedule HVAC maintenance with Riverside Comfort Care
How to Prevent Carbon Monoxide Leaks
✅ 1. Schedule Regular HVAC Maintenance
Furnaces and heat pumps should be serviced yearly to ensure proper combustion and ventilation.
✅ 2. Install Detectors on Every Floor
Place CO detectors near sleeping areas and in rooms with fuel-burning appliances.
✅ 3. Never Use Fuel-Burning Appliances Indoors
Grills, portable heaters, and generators should never be used inside or in enclosed spaces.
✅ 4. Keep Vents Clear
Ensure chimneys and appliance vents are clean and unblocked.
🔗 NFPA – Carbon Monoxide Safety Tips
What to Do After a CO Leak or Detector Alert
If your carbon monoxide detector went off and you’re safe now, here’s your next step:
Do not reuse fuel-burning appliances until they are inspected
Call a certified HVAC technician to perform combustion and ventilation testing
Replace detectors if they’re expired or malfunctioning
Consider upgrading to smart CO detectors with mobile alerts
Our team at Riverside Comfort Care offers comprehensive HVAC safety inspections across Fort Smith, Van Buren, Alma, and Greenwood, AR.
Why Choose Riverside Comfort Care for CO Safety?
As a trusted HVAC provider in the River Valley, we offer:
Gas appliance inspections
Ventilation assessments
Carbon monoxide testing
Heating system repairs and tune-ups
New furnace installation for safer, energy-efficient operation
We’re proud to serve:
Conclusion: Don’t Ignore a Beeping CO Detector
So, why is your carbon monoxide detector beeping? It could be a battery warning—or a life-threatening emergency. The only way to know for sure is to follow proper safety steps and get a professional inspection.
📞 Call Riverside Comfort Care Heating & Air at (479) 353-5266
or
📨 Contact us online for fast, expert service to protect your family and your home.
