As the season for turning on heating in earnest approaches, carbon monoxide (CO) alarms are another item that needs to be checked. Carbon monoxide is colorless and odorless, making it undetectable to humans, and it can be generated in homes with garages connected to fuel-burning appliances such as furnaces, water heaters, gas stoves, and fireplaces. In particular, regulations have changed this year, so if you were unaware, please take this opportunity to count the alarms in your home.
1. Changes to Ontario Regulations Effective January 1, 2026
- Houses with any of the following are required to have a CO alarm: a fuel combustion appliance, a fireplace, or an attached garage.
- In addition to being 'near the sleeping area,' there must now be a place on every floor (storey) of the house, including floors without bedrooms.
- Cases where air heated by a fuel combustion device located outside the house enters the home have also been newly included.
- It applies not only to detached houses but also to residential buildings in general, such as townhouses and condominiums.
2. Also check the smoke alarm.
- Smoke alarms must be operational on all floors and outside sleeping areas in Ontario.
- Smoke alarms are typically replaced after 10 years, while CO alarms are replaced after approximately 7 to 10 years according to the manufacturer's guidelines. Please check the manufacturing date or replacement date on the side or back of the unit.
- Devices that detect only smoke cannot detect CO. If you intend to use a dual-function product, please check if it is certified for both functions and if it bears Canadian certification marks such as CSA, ULC, or ETL.
3. Press the test button once a month
- It is recommended to press the test button once a month to check if the alarm sounds.
- For battery-replaceable models, replace the battery according to the manufacturer's instructions. If the alarm is old and keeps malfunctioning, it may be a sign that it has reached the end of its lifespan.
- For rental properties, the landlord is responsible for installation and maintenance, and tenants must notify the landlord immediately if the alarm does not work. Removing or blocking the alarm is a violation of regulations.
- If the CO alarm sounds or you experience symptoms such as a headache or dizziness, go outside immediately and call 911. Do not stay inside the house trying to find the cause.
Checking your alarm system takes only a few minutes, but it is virtually the only way to be alerted to potential dangers while you sleep. We recommend adding this to your checklist this fall, along with your annual furnace inspection by a qualified technician. This article provides general information; please consult your local fire department for specific regulations regarding building types.
Source: City of Burlington — New carbon monoxide alarm requirements under the Ontario Fire Code
https://www.burlington.ca/en/news/new-carbon-monoxide-alarm-requirements-under-the-ontario-fire-code.aspx
Source: Town of Innisfil — Carbon Monoxide (CO) Alarm Law Changes
https://www.innisfil.ca/government-administration/news-notices/2025-12-01-carbon-monoxide-co-alarm-law-changes |
