Carbon Monoxide Detector Placement for Vancouver Homes — Complete Guide
Published: July 21, 2026 — CANRO Heating & Cooling — Greater Vancouver, BC
Detector Requirements in BC
BC Building Code requires carbon monoxide detectors in all homes with fuel-burning appliances (gas furnace, boiler, water heater, gas fireplace) or attached garages. Detectors must be installed on each floor level and outside each sleeping area. Combination smoke-CO detectors are acceptable.
Placement Guidelines
Install detectors: on each floor of your home, outside every sleeping area (within 15 feet of bedroom doors), near the furnace or boiler room, and at least 15 feet from fuel-burning appliances (to prevent nuisance alarms from normal operation). Mount on walls at least 5 feet above the floor or on the ceiling.
Maintenance
Test detectors monthly by pressing the test button. Replace batteries annually (or when the low-battery chirp starts). Replace the entire detector unit every 5-7 years — the sensor degrades over time. Vacuum the detector annually to remove dust. Note the expiry date on the detector label.