How to Bypass Co Sensor on Generator? – [4 Step Guide]
If the carbon monoxide sensor of your generator constantly beeps even though you have placed it in a well-ventilated area or your generator automatically shuts off and starts flashing the red light.
Probably your generator’s carbon monoxide sensor could be a culprit; you can verify whether the CO sensor is in functional condition or not by bypassing it for a while.
In this guide, you will learn to bypass the CO sensor/switch safely. Before starting the actual guide let us explain what exactly a CO sensor is.
What Is a Co Sensor on Generator?
A CO (carbon monoxide) detector acts like an alarm once the concentration of carbon monoxide comes to dangerous levels, the CO sensor starts beeping and the generator will shut off automatically.
After the statement of the CDC (Center for Diseases Control and Prevention) that Every year, at least 430 people die in the U.S due to the dangerous concentration of CO, modern generators, furnaces, etc. have adopted the latest CO sensor/detector to minimize the risks, especially in the closed spaces.
How to Bypass Co Sensor on Generator?
- Turn off the generator and leave it for a while until the engine and other parts of the generator come to room temperature.
- Locate the CO sensor mostly you will find it in the control panel, remove the screws of the control panel and locate the wires of the CO sensor, you will find a white little box, disconnect it.
- Start the generator for a while if your generator works perfectly you have bypassed it successfully.
- Purchase a new CO sensor and replace it with the old one if the old one is faulty.
Why Do I Need to Bypass the Co Sensor?
If the CO sensor is faulty and constantly beeping or even if the generator starts and shuts off automatically after a few seconds, then we should have to bypass the CO sensor and test out the generator without a CO sensor.
If the generator works perfectly after removing the CO sensor, we just have to replace the CO sensor.
Remember a CO sensor is hell important for your safety, if you are operating the generator in a closed space don’t bypass it unnecessarily, however in some cases where you doubt that the CO sensor is messing with your generator then you can bypass it for a while.
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Do I Need a Co Sensor on My Generator?
Yes, it is pretty important to have a CO sensor in a generator, if your generator doesn’t have one; you should purchase a separate one especially if you are going to operate the generator close to the RV or house.
- Check out our guide about How to Bypass Low Oil Sensor on a Generator?
Safety Checklist Before Bypassing the CO Sensor/Switch
- Make sure to take the generator to a well-ventilated area where there are no hot or flammable things around.
- Don’t touch the generator until it comes to room temperature.
- Before starting the process, make sure to go through the user or owner manual.
- Once the problem is detected, you have to replace the CO sensor.
- Without a CO sensor, you may have to face a heavy fine. Here is the list of laws you should have to follow.
Do Whole House Generators Give off Carbon Monoxide?
Yes, every generator including standby or whole-house generators emits carbon monoxide, we suggest our readers strictly follow the safety measures before installing a whole-house generator.
Wrapping – Up
Sometimes we need to bypass the CO sensor to know the actual reason why the CO sensor is beeping or the generator turns off automatically, however, we strongly recommend you replace the CO sensor if it is faulty.
CO sensor could be a lifesaver for you and your family if you have placed the generator in a closed space.
I always have a separate CO sensor for my RV and House even though I place my generator at least 15ft Away from my house.
Let us know in the comment section if you need any help regards bypassing the CO sensor on a generator.
Josh is a highly skilled electrician with specialized expertise in the field of generators. With years of experience under his belt, he has established himself as an expert in all aspects of generators, ranging from installation and maintenance to troubleshooting and repairs. Josh’s in-depth knowledge of electrical systems and his commitment to staying updated with the latest industry advancements make him a reliable and sought-after professional.