CO detector

[Bryce Grefe]

I'm planning on wiring a CO detector on my H410. Its a 12 VDC model that draws around 1/2 amp when operating. I'd like to only have it operate when either the deisal or genset is operating. Any thought on how that might be accomplished?BryceS/V SpellbinderH410

 

[Bob Todd]

You have a couple of choices...

You can get complicated and wire solenoids into the systems to power it when either unit is operating, or you can just wire a switch to it and turn it on manually. The latter taxes your memory ;-) but it's simpler...just place the switch adjacent to the genset/instrument panel.Cheers,Bob

 

[Todd Osborne]

K.I.S.S.

I bought a $25 model that uses a 9V battery that lasts for months. Just like the smoke alarms.... Some say the non-marine models won't hold up. The same thing they said about my car stereo which in it's 5th year works flawlessly...

 

[Andy Howard]

KISS part 2

I agree with Todd, I have the same 9-volt type of unit on my boat. It's working all the time and it was as simple to install as a smoke alarm.

 

[Bob Camarena]

Andy/Todd- Where to mount?

Where did you mount your alarms? I think, if I remember my chemistry, that CO is heavier than air, so lower would be better.

 

[Peggie Hall/Head Mistress]

Put it where you'll be

It's people, not equipment, that CO kills. Which means the CO detector goes in the cabin,.not the engine room unless you plan to spend a lot of time there with the engine or genset running. However, unless the engine or genset exhaust is leaking, there isn't likely to be any CO in the engine room anyway. Most CO deaths are caused by CO out the exhaust that finds its way into the cabin from outside the boat. Most of 'em are mounted about eye level on a bulkhead.