Radon, CO & Smoke Detectors: A Canadian Home Guide
Key takeaways
- Smoke alarms are required on every storey and outside sleeping areas; replace units every 10 years.
- CO alarms are required near sleeping areas in homes with fuel-burning appliances or attached garages.
- Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in Canada — testing is the only way to know your level.
- Health Canada's action level for radon is 200 Bq/m³.
Smoke alarms
Most Canadian provinces require working smoke alarms on every storey and outside each sleeping area. Test them monthly, replace batteries yearly (or use 10-year sealed-battery units), and replace the whole alarm every 10 years — the sensors degrade. Interconnected alarms that all sound together give you the most warning.
Carbon monoxide (CO) alarms
CO is an invisible, odourless gas from any fuel-burning appliance — furnace, water heater, fireplace, or a car in an attached garage. Many provinces now require CO alarms near sleeping areas in homes with these sources. Place them as the manufacturer directs and replace per the date on the unit (typically 7–10 years).
Radon detectors
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that seeps from the ground into homes. Health Canada calls it the second leading cause of lung cancer after smoking, and levels vary house to house. A digital radon monitor or a long-term test kit tells you your level. Health Canada's action level is 200 Bq/m³ — above that, mitigation is recommended.
Where to place each detector
- Smoke: every storey, inside and outside bedrooms, away from kitchens/bathrooms to limit false alarms.
- CO: near sleeping areas and on each level; follow the unit's height guidance.
- Radon: the lowest lived-in level of the home (usually the basement), away from drafts.
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Frequently asked questions
How often should I replace smoke and CO alarms?
Replace smoke alarms every 10 years and CO alarms per the date printed on the unit (often 7–10 years). Test both monthly.
What radon level is dangerous in Canada?
Health Canada's action level is 200 Bq/m³. If a long-term test shows higher, radon mitigation is recommended.
Do I legally need a CO alarm?
Many Canadian provinces require CO alarms in homes with fuel-burning appliances or an attached garage. Check your provincial and municipal rules.
Product information is for general reference only. Specifications, finishes and compatibility can vary — always check the manufacturer’s listing and instructions. For electrical, plumbing, gas or structural work, follow your local building and electrical codes and use a licensed professional where required.