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14 Best Carbon Monoxide Detectors (Review) In 2021

Written by:
Unclutterer
Last Updated: February 26, 2021
Show Contents
Contents
  • The Best Carbon Monoxide Detector
  • 1. First Alert SCO5CN Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector
  • 2. Google Nest Carbon Monoxide Alarm
  • 3. Kidde KN-COB-LP2 9CO5-LP2 Carbon Monoxide Detector
  • 4. Kidde 21026043 carbon Monoxide Detector
  • 5. First Alert BRK SC9120B Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector
  • 6. Kidde Nighthawk KN-COPP-3 Carbon Monoxide Alarm
  • 7. Kidde KN-COEG-3 Carbon Monoxide and Explosive Gas Detector
  • 8. First Alert CO400 Carbon Monoxide Detector
  • 9. X-Sense SC01 Carbon Monoxide Detector
  • 10. First Alert CO615 Carbon Monoxide Detector Alarm
  • 11. BQQZHZ Combination Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector
  • 12. Alert Plus Carbon Monoxide Alarm Detector
  • 13. Kidde 21007267 Nighthawk Carbon Monoxide Alarm
  • 14. Vitowell Combination Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector

Carbon monoxide is a poisonous gas that can cause deadly outcomes if not dealt with quickly. It is produced when fuels do not burn properly, but it has no smell or taste, making it a silent killer in many homes. This is why it is so important for any home with fuel-burning appliances to have efficient carbon monoxide detectors that can warn you of the gas before it's too late. Within this guide, we will be taking you through the best carbon monoxide detectors that will help to eliminate any worries and ensure safety.

The Best Carbon Monoxide Detector

1. First Alert SCO5CN Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector

Best Choice
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Key Features

    2-in-1 smoke and carbon monoxide protection

    Indicator lights

    85-decibel siren with different noises for each warning

    AA battery operated

    7 year limited warranty

    Test and silence button

Check Latest Price
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First Alert SCO5CN Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector
Check Latest Price

Our best choice product goes by the name of the First Alert SCO5CN Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector. We particularly love the design of this detector as it is very sleek and simple yet has a lot to offer. It has clever dual sensors that can detect both smoke and carbon monoxide, making it a cost-efficient option for a home or building that needs both types of detector installed. These sensors will only react to real alerts and never get confused with minimal amounts of steam coming from showers or cookers.

With regards to the alert system, this First Alert detector has a loud 85-decibel siren which will make a different noise depending on whether there is smoke or carbon monoxide present. And, to add even further to efficiency, this detector requires just two AA batteries to install. Simple!

    Pros

    This is battery operated meaning you’ll never have to cover extra costs for installation

    Alert system has different ‘beeps’ depending on the warning

    The indicator lights provide extra security, instructing you on what to do

    Cons

    Traditional design which some people may not like in modern homes

    Battery tray may lose strength over time

2. Google Nest Carbon Monoxide Alarm

Split-Spectrum Sensor
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Key Features

    2-in-1 smoke and carbon monoxide detector

    Connects to your phone

    Split-Spectrum Sensor

    App silence option for controllable situations

Check Latest Price
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Google Nest Carbon Monoxide Alarm
Check Latest Price

Next up, we have the Google Nest Carbon Monoxide Alarm alarm. This smart home alarm is a popular favorite amongst modern and tech enthusiasts; the team at Nest has had no problem creating another excellent product to suit their needs.

Branded as ‘the smoke alarm other alarms look up to’, the Nest Protect truly is in a league of its own. It contains a Split-Spectrum smoke sensor that lasts up to 10 years, saving you the trouble of having to replace it for a long time to come. It even tests itself automatically, eliminating any fears you might have about your detector silently breaking. And don’t worry – the Nest Protect will alert your phone if there is a problem that needs seeing to.

    Pros

    The clever sensor will test itself, reducing routine check costs

    Always stay in-the-know with handy phone alerts

    10 year lifespan keeps you safe and worry-free for a long time

    Cons

    30 day return window is quite small

    Some reviews claim that the sensor is too sensitive

The Nest Protect is a communicative device that will always keep you updated right from your phone. There are very few smart alarms quite like this, and if high-tech is what you’re after, then high-tech is what you’ll get.

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3. Kidde KN-COB-LP2 9CO5-LP2 Carbon Monoxide Detector

Best Value
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Key Features

    Sliding battery door

    LED light indication system

    85-decibel alarm

    Event memory

Check Latest Price
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Kidde KN-COB-LP2 9CO5-LP2 Carbon Monoxide Detector
Check Latest Price

If you’re looking for a carbon monoxide alarm that does an amazing job without breaking the bank, then you’re going to love this Kidde KN-COB-LP2 9CO5-LP2 Carbon Monoxide Detector alarm. Its compact, battery-operated, design will blend well into your home while monitoring carbon monoxide levels on a continuous basis. If there is ever a problem, the piezoelectric horn will alert you at 85-decibel, informing your whole household that a problem needs to be dealt with. And, if the alarm wasn’t enough, a simple indicating light system will instruct you on whether there is an issue. A constant green flash means that everything is fine and a red pulse indicates that carbon monoxide has been detected.

    Pros

    Loud alarm ensures all household members will be able to hear it

    Sliding battery door gives you immediate access

    Test/reset button makes testing the device quick and easy

    Cons

    Does not detect smoke

4. Kidde 21026043 carbon Monoxide Detector

Voice Alarm
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Key Features

    2-in-1 smoke and carbon monoxide alarm

    Voice alerts

    Hush feature to silence nuisance alarms

    Front-loading battery door

Check Latest Price
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Kidde 21026043 carbon Monoxide Detector
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Prefer your gadgets to have a human touch? No problem. The Kidde 21026043 carbon Monoxide Detector embraces exactly that. This intelligent alarm is unlike many others; it has a voice activation system that will either alarm ‘Fire!’ or ‘Warning – Carbon Monoxide!’ depending on the problem at hand. This is really useful for those who wish to have extra security and stability when faced with a testing situation.

Of course, this 2-in-1 alarm has so much more than voice alerts. It also features an easy access front-loading battery door for quick changeovers and a hush mode to silence nuisance alarms. You’ll never experience the frustrations which come from older poorly-designed alarms again.

    Pros

    The voice alerts help to clarify what problem is at hand

    Front-loading battery door prevents the need to re-install alarm

    Audio alarm sits at an incredible 85-decibel

    Cons

    Batteries may need frequent seeing-to

    This uses an Ionization sensor which might not be as effective as detecting smoke

5. First Alert BRK SC9120B Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector

Simple To Use
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Key Features

    2-in-1 smoke and carbon monoxide alarm

    Connects with up to 18 compatible alarms

    Easy to install

    Battery backup system

Check Latest Price
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First Alert BRK SC9120B Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector
Check Latest Price

We’ve got another amazing smoke and carbon detector from to share with you. The First Alert BRK SC9120B Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector alarm is packed with many features that will guarantee your safety no matter what. We particularly love that this alarm is compatible with up to 18 devices, making it the ideal product to have in a large building that requires multiple alarms to alert residents that there is danger. Just one trigger of the SC9120B alarm will be enough to sync up with the compatible alarms and create a louder alert.

This alarm automatically performs its own tests, making it an ideal detector for those who don’t want to waste money paying professionals to do this. And, thanks to the battery backup, the detector will always be functioning even if there is a power failure. This simple to use alarm is truly a dream come true for those in charge of large buildings that need the utmost security!

    Pros

    The battery backup system ensures that the monitor is always detecting, even during a power outage

    Easy installation means multiple can be installed in a big building quickly

    Tamper-resistant locking brackets make this alarm ideal for public places

    Cons

    Only BRK and First Alert detectors are compatible

    If over-sensitive and synced to several devices, you will have a lot of alarms to deal with!

6. Kidde Nighthawk KN-COPP-3 Carbon Monoxide Alarm

Test Button Functions
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Key Features

    Test and reset button

    LED light indicator

    9-volt battery backup

    10-year replacement alert

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Kidde Nighthawk KN-COPP-3 Carbon Monoxide Alarm
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The Kidde Nighthawk KN-COPP-3 Carbon Monoxide Alarm is a modern carbon monoxide alarm that boasts many features including a digital display, test button functions and battery backup. The digital display is really handy to have if you want to stay in the loop at all times; it informs you on the CO levels in your home, and of course, alerts you when levels are too dangerous. The beeps that you hear will vary depending on the danger level.

Thanks to the simple test/reset button, it has never been easier to keep up with the maintenance of your carbon monoxide detector. Just press the button when in need of a test and your job will be done.

    Pros

    The battery backup helps to keep you safe, even during a power outage

    Clear alert system helps you to safely replace the detector every 10 years

    Testing button makes routine checks quick and easy

    Cons

    Not suitable for travel due to being quite heavy

    Some reviewers have found that their homes are not suitable for the recommended placements

Moving on to the battery backup – an incredibly important feature to have with any system for added peace of mind. While this CO alarm is not battery operated, it has a 9 volt battery backup to rely on if there is a power outage. This ensures that your safety is guaranteed no matter what.

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7. Kidde KN-COEG-3 Carbon Monoxide and Explosive Gas Detector

Nighthawk Sensor Technology
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Key Features

    2-in-1 carbon monoxide and explosive gas detector

    85-decibel pulsing alarm

    3 mounting options

    Digital display that records CO levels

Check Latest Price
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Kidde KN-COEG-3 Carbon Monoxide and Explosive Gas Detector
Check Latest Price

The Kidde KN-COEG-3 Carbon Monoxide and Explosive Gas Detector features Nighthawk sensor technology to keep your whole household safe from the dangers of carbon monoxide and explosive gas. This is one of the most intuitive monoxide detectors around; it has a digital display that can show you the peak CO level recorded since reset and also the current level of carbon dioxide if there is any around. The sensor will also detect any traces of methane or propane, eliminating the risk of any nasty gas explosions.

This detector is designed for home use. It plugs directly into any AC unit, and in the event of a power outage, it has a 9-volt battery backup to ensure continuous monitoring. If you don’t wish to plug it into an AC unit, then you can benefit from the 6-foot extension cord that makes it possible for wall installation instead. The choice is yours.

    Pros

    3 different mounting options make this device compatible in most homes

    Very few alarms can detect explosive gas, making this one unique for all the right reasons

    Test/reset button means that you can silence the alarm in an instant

    Cons

    Must be mounted up high for the natural gas detector to work properly

    Backup batteries may not have enough power to last through a long outage

8. First Alert CO400 Carbon Monoxide Detector

5 Year Warranty
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Key Features

    Loud 85-decibel alarm

    5 year warranty

    Electrochemical carbon monoxide sensor

    Test/silence button

Check Latest Price
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First Alert CO400 Carbon Monoxide Detector
Check Latest Price

Warranties are important when it comes to products as vital as carbon monoxide detectors. Your peace of mind is sacred and a company that offers strong warranties is usually a company you can trust. This is why we love the First Alert CO400 Carbon Monoxide Detector so much; it comes with a five-year limited warranty and an ‘end of life chirp’ so that you’re never left in the dark.

No matter where this detector is placed, it will guarantee accurate results. It has an advanced electrochemical carbon monoxide sensor and a loud 85-decibel alarm to alert you of any dangers in the home. In terms of installation, this CO detector has an easy access battery door for a quick recharge and even comes with a 9-volt battery to make matters easier.

    Pros

    All First Alert CO alarms meet UL standards, ensuring safety

    5 year limited warranty gives you peace of mind

    Detector is accurate no matter where it’s placed

    Cons

    Some reviewers received products near end of life – always check the manufacture date!

9. X-Sense SC01 Carbon Monoxide Detector

10-Year Battery
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Key Features

    2-in-1 smoke detector and CO detector

    10-year battery life

    Large digital display

    Test/silence button

Check Latest Price
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X-Sense SC01 Carbon Monoxide Detector
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The very best smoke and carbon monoxide detectors should last for up to 10 years before needing to be replaced. But, unfortunately, many detectors don’t hold their end of the bargain and need replacing soon after they are installed. This can become quite the nuisance if you’ve installed several alarms in a large building!

With help from the X-Sense SC01 Carbon Monoxide Detector you no longer have to worry about whether the battery will last for long periods of time. Instead, you’ll have full trust over knowing that this device prides itself on having a strong 10-year battery. This 2-in-1 detector also has a large LCD display which will keep you informed on the CO concentration in the air.

    Pros

    Easy installation

    Easy to read screen shows you carbon monoxide levels

    4 different light indicators help to distinguish the problem

    Cons

    Traditional design may not be ideal for modern homeowners

To make things super simple for you, this smoke and carbon monoxide alarm has four different flashing light alerts to inform you of the problem at hand. No more contemplating or worrying about what the detector is trying to tell you!

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10. First Alert CO615 Carbon Monoxide Detector Alarm

Premium Pick
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Key Features

    Battery backup

    Digital display

    End of life ‘chirp’

    85-decibel

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First Alert CO615 Carbon Monoxide Detector Alarm
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Another amazing product from First Alert is the First Alert CO615 Carbon Monoxide Detector Alarm. This alarm has a battery backup system for constant monitoring and even has a digital display to tell you carbon monoxide levels. We particularly love that this CO detector isn’t too ‘in your face’ – it is small and compact, making it ideal for homeowners who go to great efforts with their interior design.

In terms of the alarm, this detector has a loud 85-decibel alarm that will alert you when there are dangerous levels of carbon monoxide in the home. And, for guaranteed safety, this carbon monoxide alarm comes with a seven-year limited warranty and an end of life chirp.

    Pros

    Multi-pack discounts available for those who need more than one detector

    85-decibel alarm is loud enough for the whole household to hear

    Small and compact design makes this device blend into any home effortlessly

    Cons

    Does not detect smoke

11. BQQZHZ Combination Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector

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Key Features

    Battery operated

    Real-time display

    360-degree protection

    Easy installation

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BQQZHZ Combination Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector
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For those looking for modern-looking carbon monoxide detectors, we can’t recommend the BQQZHZ Combination Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector enough. This incredibly attractive alarm can detect both smoke and carbon monoxide while informing you of CO concentration levels on the large digital display. Carbon monoxide poisoning is a silent killer and so it is important to have a clear understanding of the CO levels in your home at all times.

Equipped with 360-degree protection and an easy installation process, there’s not much that the BQQZHZ alarm can’t do. We know you’ll love it.

    Pros

    4-step installation process is incredibly easy and requires no professional assistance

    360-degree protection ensures that you will always get the most accurate reading

    Real-time display makes viewing CO levels easy

    Cons

    Light display has different colours which may cause problems in bright daylight

12. Alert Plus Carbon Monoxide Alarm Detector

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Key Features

    Human voice prompts

    Digital display shows CO concentration and 24-hour clock

    Long standby time

    Auto-detect sensor failure

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Alert Plus Carbon Monoxide Alarm Detector
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Very few carbon monoxide detectors incorporate color into their design, but if you’re a fan of red detailing, then we’ve found the best detector for you. This Carbon Monoxide Alarm Detector from Alert Plus has cleverly incorporated a sleek design with high-functioning features. We’re talking a powerful 85-decibel alarm, 5-year warranty, voice warning battery and much more. If aesthetics combined with safety is what you’re after in the home, then look no further than right here.

    Pros

    Unique design will complement any home interior

    Electrochemical sensor is highly reliable

    Comes with a 5-year warranty for extra peace of mind

    Cons

    The digital display is quite small and might be hard to read

13. Kidde 21007267 Nighthawk Carbon Monoxide Alarm

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Key Features

    Peak level button

    Battery operated

    LED signal system

    End of life alarm

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Kidde 21007267 Nighthawk Carbon Monoxide Alarm
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Looking for the best carbon monoxide detectors that are low-fuss? Would you rather have an alarm that doesn’t stick out like a sore thumb? No problem – we have just the answer. Say hello to the Kidde 21007267 Nighthawk Carbon Monoxide Alarm. This alarm comes with a digital display small enough to show CO levels without being too obnoxious or bright. The display updates every 15 seconds to ensure the readings are always as accurate as possible.

As well as the digital display, this Kidde detector has two different LED light systems that will keep you informed on activity. Red will show when in alarm mode and green will show when operations are normal. Nice and simple!

    Pros

    Small design means this alarm can be installed in any location without being in the away

    Device is battery operated meaning you will never have to pay large maintenance bills

    Backlit display helps to read CO levels in the dark

    Cons

    The screen is very small – some people may find it hard to read

14. Vitowell Combination Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector

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Key Features

    2-in-1 smoke detector and CO detector

    LCD display shows CO levels

    Test/silence button

    5-year warranty

Check Latest Price
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Vitowell Combination Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector
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We’re ending this buying guide on a very high note with help from this Combination of Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector from Vitowell. This 2-in-1 alarm uses an electrochemical sensor to record nothing but accurate readings, all while detecting both fast and slow-burning fires. The LCD display will help to indicate CO levels in your home and the test/silence button will ensure that the alarm is always kept well-maintained without the need for hiring expensive professionals.

This alarm is incredibly easy to install and comes with a 5-year warranty for added peace of mind. What’s not to love about a detector which simply does the trick without cutting corners?

    Pros

    The test/silence button cuts out any expensive maintenance fees

    Electrochemical sensor is very sensitive and always on-the-go

    LCD screen gives you a better understanding of the CO levels in your home

    Cons

    The LCD screen is very small and may be difficult to read

Features To Consider With Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Read on to discover some of the most important features to look out for when looking for the best carbon monoxide detector.

Quality

It might be tempting to opt for the cheapest detector you see, but when your safety is involved, it's not a wise move. When browsing through carbon monoxide detectors, always check to see the quality of both the products and the brand. If the product boasts a huge array of excellent features and the brand is highly reputable, then the detector is likely to be of high quality.

Size And Design

The size and design of the detector will entirely depend on where you plan to put it. More times than not, people prefer to use compact detectors that are easy to read yet don't ruin the appearance of the room. So, when looking for the best carbon monoxide detector, don't forget to think about where it is going to be placed in the home.

monoxide detector size and design

Smoke Detection

Smoke detectors are just as important as CO detectors - but do you really want two different alarm systems installed in your home? The majority of products in this guide feature a 2-in-1 smoke and carbon monoxide detector system, saving you both money and a whole lot of hassle further down the line.

Sensor

The sensor is the most important part of any detector - if it doesn't work, then you won't be alerted when there is danger. And, without an alert, there's no point having the alarm! To ensure that you get the best sensor possible, ensure that you read reviews and look into other products and services that may feature the same sensor. You'll be able to get a grasp on its effectiveness from here.

Display

Some CO detectors have display panels which tell you everything you need to know about the levels of CO in your home. Whether you prefer digital readings or a simple light indicator, you'll be sure to find a product that matches your needs.

smoke detector display

Additional Features

We're in a world of modern technology, meaning the majority of carbon monoxide detectors are stacked with additional features. From various alert systems to back-up battery packs, we've ensured that all products in this guide have worthwhile features that will add benefit to your life.

Interconnectivity

Are you in charge of a large building which requires several smoke or carbon detectors? It looks like you would benefit from interconnectivity. Be sure to look out for this when looking for the right detector, as interconnectivity can be a lifesaving feature. It involves syncing all of the alarms up so that they alert each other (and you) when there is a threat.

Installation

Paying for professionals to install your detector can be costly; especially when they need constant testing and resetting. With this in mind, many top-quality carbon monoxide detectors feature easy-installation so that you can do it yourself. Whether it be easy-to-access battery packs or three-step instructions, always research into how to install products before buying them.

setting carbon detector

Maintenance

Similarly to installation, you want a carbon monoxide detector that doesn't require much maintenance. To prevent any maintenance troubles, look out for self-testing features or test/reset buttons. If the device has one of these, then it will take care of itself until it needs to be replaced 10 years down the line.

Warranty

From 3 to 5 to 10 years, many high-quality carbon monoxide detectors will come with a warranty to win over your trust. It is always important to purchase a product with a good warranty as this will act as your insurance in the unfortunate event of a fault happening.

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Types Of Carbon Monoxide Detector Sensors

There are four main types of carbon monoxide detector sensors, all of which come with their own features and benefits. These are:

  • Metal Oxide Semiconductor: Uses wired circuits to work. Typically lasts for 10 years.
  • Electrochemical Sensor: Considered to be the sensor of the highest quality. They have a long lifespan and work by generating currents that give you an accurate reading of how much carbon monoxide is in the home.
  • Biomimetic Sensor: Uses colour-changing liquids to work. Typically lasts for 3 years.
  • Optochemical Sensor: A more economical sensor that can also detect poisonous gas. It uses a colour changing pad to alert when CO has been found. It is important to know that optochemical sensors cannot detect levels of CO.

turning on carbon detector

Carbon Monoxide Detector FAQ

Q: What is a Carbon Monoxide Detector?

A:

A carbon monoxide detector - also known as a CO detector - is a sensor and alarm system which detects whether there is carbon monoxide gas in the air. Carbon monoxide has no taste, odor or visibility which is why detectors are essential for your safety.

Q: Where should a carbon monoxide detector be placed?

A:

CO detectors should be placed in any room that has a fuel-burning appliance or in a hallway.

Q: What is the correct mounting height for a carbon monoxide detector?

A:

As a general rule of thumb, aim to keep the detector five feet above the ground. This will help to ensure that it gives the most accurate reading possible.

Q: What can trigger a carbon monoxide detector?

A:

CO detectors can be triggered by all fuel-burning appliances (ovens, boilers, etc). Carbon monoxide levels tend to rise when there isn't a proper ventilation system in place.

monoxide detector reacting

Q: What are the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning?

A:

The most common signs and symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning can include headache, dizziness, nausea, shortness of breath and general weakness. Severe symptoms include blurred vision and loss of consciousness.

Q: How many carbon monoxide detectors should I install?

A:

The number of detectors that you install will depend on the size of your building. There should be at least one detector on each floor of your home and another in the basement if applicable. If you are concerned about the quality of the air in your home, it's highly recommended to get an air quality monitor that can tell you the exact level of pollutants in the room.

Q: How to maintain a carbon monoxide detector?

A:

To ensure your carbon monoxide detector maintains a long lifespan, run frequent tests and change the batteries whenever they are running low. As well as this, ensure that it is cleaned often to remove dust.

Sources

    What Does a Carbon Monoxide Detector Do and How Does it Work? - Safe Wise

    Carbon Monoxide Detector Placement: Where to Place CO Alarms in Your Home - Safety

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