How many carbon monoxide monitors should be installed in a 2-story home?

The correct answer is that two carbon monoxide monitors should be installed in a 2-story home. The general guidance for the placement of carbon monoxide detectors suggests having one on each level of a multi-story dwelling. This ensures that the monitors can effectively detect carbon monoxide, which is a colorless and odorless gas that can be deadly.

Having one monitor on each level increases the chances of detection in case of a leak, as carbon monoxide can disperse throughout a home. It is vital to check local building codes and guidelines, which may have specific requirements regarding the number of detectors based on the layout and use of space within the home.

In contrast, one monitor would not provide adequate coverage for a two-story home, while three or four monitors may be more than necessary unless there are additional sleeping areas or rooms that require more monitoring. Therefore, the installation of two carbon monoxide detectors strikes the right balance of safety and compliance with recommended practices for homes of that size.