The Best Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Smoke alarms are found in almost every home and apartment in most parts of the world, but carbon monoxide detectors are often neglected. While it’s important to stay vigilant against fires, it’s just as important to protect yourself against harmful gas. Since carbon monoxide is invisible, it makes it extra hard to sense when there’s a threat. That’s why we’ve narrowed down the best carbon monoxide detectors on the market so you can find the right one to keep you safe and secure in your own home.
What to Look For
When narrowing down the best carbon monoxide detectors, we considered size, overall functions, price, and detection capabilities. For example, if you want an affordable and reliable carbon monoxide detector that can be powered by an electrical outlet or backup battery, the Kidde carbon monoxide detector may be your best bet. If you want something that can detect both smoke and carbon monoxide, the First Alert SCO5CN alarm offers the best of both worlds. Read on to see all our top picks and find the carbon monoxide detector that’s right for you.
Kidde Carbon Monoxide Detector
Pain-free protection
If you’re looking for the best of both worlds, this carbon monoxide detector from Kidde does it all. It has an AC plug to get power from the wall outlet, and it even has a backup battery for power outages. Just plug it into any wall outlet, load it with two AA batteries, and let it work. It puts out a thundering 85-decibel alarm if there’s any CO in the area, so you’ll be the first to know if there’s any danger.
Pros:
- Simple user interface is easy to operate
- Can run on AC power or batteries
- Has a tamper-resist cover on the back
Cons:
- It can’t run on AC mode without also inserting batteries as a backup
First Alert CO400 Carbon Monoxide (CO) Detector
Sweet simplicity
Sometimes it’s best to keep things simple, which is why this carbon monoxide detector from First Alert is one of our favorites. It only has one button on the front to test the detection, and that’s it. Once you test it, just sit back, relax, and let it do its job. It comes loaded with a top-notch electrochemical sensor to keep a close eye on carbon monoxide, and it runs on 9-volt batteries, so it may have a longer battery life than some competitors. On top of it all, it’s decently affordable. What’s not to love?
Pros:
- Comes with fresh batteries
- Includes screws and wall anchors for installation
- The one-button layout is straightforward to use
Cons:
- Has to be taken off the wall to access the battery door
Kidde Battery Operated Carbon Monoxide Alarm
Lights out, no problem
If you want to ensure your home is always protected from carbon monoxide, even during power outages and storms, this battery-powered alarm is the perfect solution. This versatile alarm has different alert modes and two LED lights that signal power and CO detection. It operates on three AA batteries, so battery lifetimes depend on your battery brand of choice. Still, these alarms keep running even when the electricity in your home stops. For reliable protection and a price that’s hard to beat, this CO alarm is a no-brainer.
Pros:
- Has an easy-to-read digital display
- Very affordable
- Gives a low battery signal when power is running low
- Can mount on a wall or tabletop
Cons:
- Buying AA batteries is an additional cost
Cheffort Handheld Carbon Monoxide Meter
Power in your hand
If you want the power to detect carbon monoxide in a portable form, look no further. This handheld carbon monoxide meter is the best of the best, and it fits in the palm of your hand. You can check for CO in the house, outdoors, at work, and anywhere else you may be concerned about a potential leak. The price is also better than expected, considering this is a tool that professionals use. For carbon monoxide protection that you can take on the go, you’d be hard-pressed to beat this bargain.
Pros:
- Adjustable alarm value
- LED backlight screen
- Auto shutoff after 10 minutes without use
- Lightweight design
Cons:
- Only works when manually checking for a leak, not as an always-on option
First Alert SCO5CN Alarm
One package, diverse detection
If you want to cover all your bases with one device, this combo alarm from First Alert may be just what you’re looking for. It detects both carbon monoxide and smoke, making it a terrific two-for-one. It uses both electrochemical and photoelectric sensors to make sure your home is free of fire and CO. Best of all, it’s battery-powered and easy to install without an electrician. With this little alarm, you can start protecting your home in a matter of minutes.
Pros:
- Can access battery without removing from the ceiling
- Photoelectric sensor results in fewer false alarms
- Siren is 85 decibels, so it’s enough to wake you up
Cons:
- Fairly expensive at full price
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I need a carbon monoxide detector?
Carbon monoxide is colorless, odorless, and tasteless, so it can be hard to identify without a detector. Most of all, it’s toxic. Any device that burns fuel has the potential to give off carbon monoxide fumes, which could cause harm if inhaled. Detectors let you know when there’s CO in the air so you can stay safe.
Do I need separate detectors for carbon monoxide, smoke, and other hazardous gases?
Not necessarily. Many devices can check for at least two of these three harmful substances. It’s not uncommon to see detectors that are for CO and smoke or CO and other explosive gasses. However, finding one device that can detect all three may be tricky. We recommend having at least a CO2 and smoke detector to protect your home.
About the Author
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