What do I do if my carbon monoxide detector goes off?

What do I do if my carbon monoxide detector goes off?/A carbon monoxide detector or CO detector is a device that detects the presence of carbon monoxide (CO) gas to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. In the late 1990s, Underwriters Laboratories changed the definition of a single station CO detector with a sound device to carbon monoxide (CO) alarm. This applies to all CO safety alarms that meet UL 2034 standard however for passive indicators and system devices that meet UL 2075, UL refers to these as carbon monoxide detectors.

Have you installed the best carbon monoxide detector in your home? If you haven’t then you should read this article to the end. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), many people lose their lives due to carbon monoxide poisoning. The latest data from the government website, CDC, from the body, indicates that 393 people died as of 2015 from unintentional poisoning. 2,244 deaths had occurred from 2010 to 2015, and this should have you worried.

The worrying trend was also witnessed in other parts of the globe, and this has led to governments and other organizations encouraging people to install detectors and alarms to stop death. In fact, Forbes, in an earlier article has also described carbon monoxide as “A Silent Killer


Why Is CO Dangerous?

Did you know that people get poisoned by the gas without even knowing? They will start experiencing flu-like symptoms such as dizziness, fever, severe headaches, weakness/fatigue, nausea, sleepiness, confusion, and disorientation. Many unfortunately won’t know what’s happening and some who do may discover it too late. The following are some reasons why the likes of Forbes and other organizations refer to it as a Silent Killer:

  • Colorless – Do you know that you can be inhaling carbon monoxide right now? The reason that you may not know of its existence is that it’s colorless. You will, therefore, continue with your chores only to experience the symptoms and die if you don’t get medical help.
  • Odorless – If there is gas leakage in your home, restaurant, office or any other place, you’ll immediately know there is a problem and will take the necessary steps. This is because of the smell to gives off. But, with CO, there is no odor. You will innocently inhale it until fatality strikes.
  • Tasteless – You can taste many gases, and this is always a good signal for you to run for dear life or look for the source of the gas/taste. Some will be sour, others salty, some may have a sweet taste. Sadly, carbon monoxide has no taste. Combined with the lack of smell and lack of color, it ranks among the dangerous gases that exist freely.

Sources Of The Gas

The gas comes from incomplete combustion of certain fuels or when there is poor air circulation. Likely sources include gas stoves/ranges, fireplaces, water heaters, gas clothes dryer, fuel-burning space heaters, wood-burning stoves, charcoal grills, generators car exhaust, generators, blocked chimney, and damaged furnace exchanger. Operating a fuel burning stove, grill, or range in an enclosed space where there is a limited supply of fresh air increases the poisoning.

Read More: The article from Kidde sheds more light on carbon monoxide, poisoning symptoms, and how to stay safe.

Common Types Of Carbon Monoxide Detectors

  • Battery-operated – This is among both basic detectors you’ll find in the market. They run via batteries and may come with a digital screen or may have none. They are loved for their simplicity and easy installation. Nevertheless, you need to constantly examine them to make certain the batteries have enough charge or aren’t leaking.
  • Hardwired – As implied by the name, this detector is connected to the circuitry (electrical system). The unit may be rated 110V AC, 220V AC, or dual voltage (100-240V AC). Unlike the battery-powered device, you won’t need to constantly monitor or replace batteries. But, the unit won’t work in case of a power outage.
  • Digital – This type of detector has a digital screen that not only indicates the presence of the poisonous gas but also the volume. The bars will increase if the level is high and low in case it’s only a small amount. The unit, just like other types, is based on sensor technology to spot the gas.
  • Dual-function – This unit serves two purposes which are CO detection and also an alarm. After sensing the presence of the carbon monoxide gas, the unit will trigger an alarm or siren. This notifies you in case you are far or are busy doing something else.
  • Smart – Unlike other types, this detector is highly advanced. It will run self-diagnosis to ensure that every part is working as designed. Older types would at times jam or trigger the alarm a little late. This was usually caused by the accumulation of dirt, dust, corrosion and other debris. Due to the sophisticated nature, this unit is very precise.
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List Of Best Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Wewalab Carbon Monoxide Detector Alarm

It’s not hard to find this detector /alarm in many homes. It is also among the most reviewed products in 2019. The reason for its popularity is the excellent service it provides and affordability. It can easily sense carbon monoxide in environments and will alert the user via the clear 3-digit LCD screen. The built-in LED unit also flashes, and it also produces a loud alarm (85 decibels) to further notify the people around of the impending danger. The portable gadget runs on batteries which last for a good time. It has a unique design that enhances its appearance and functionality as well.

Reasons To Buy This

  • Loud audible alarm
  • Energy efficient
  • Easy installation
  • Good weight and portable

First Alert Carbon Monoxide (CO605) Alarm/Detector With Battery Backup

The “First Alert” name is very popular when talking about carbon monoxide detectors and alarms. In fact, the company has lots of products on offer. The CO605 is among the top items. It has good sensitivity to detect even small volumes of carbon monoxide. This plug-in unit will easily fit in the standard wall sockets. And in case you experience a power outage, you will still be safe, thanks to the 9V DC battery backup. It produces a loud noise/alarm (85 decibels) to alert you when far or if too preoccupied with other things. The light accessory fits easily and works for a long time without problems. It has an easy-to-operate push-button and is made of durable materials.

Amazon Best Seller
First Alert CO605 Plug-In Carbon Monoxide Detector with Battery Backup , White
  • Keep your family safe with this easy to use plug in carbon monoxide alarm; It works with any standard outlet and also has a battery backup for continuous monitoring of Carbon Monoxide levels, even if there's a power failure
  • Features an advanced electrochemical carbon monoxide sensor that accurately detects carbon monoxide levels, no matter where the detector is placed in the room
  • Simple to use, with a single test/silence button; a loud 85 decibel alarm sounds when Carbon Monoxide levels reach dangerous levels. Low battery signal mute, quiets low battery signal for upto 8 hours
  • To ensure complete protection make sure to place one on each level of your home and in each bedroom
  • 7 year limited warranty; Equipped with end of life signal chirp, so you know when it’s time to replace the unit for safety
  • All first alert CO alarms are rigorously tested to meet UL standards. Item length is 3.4 inches , item width is 1.38 inches and item height is 5 inches
  • Loud 85-decibel alarm sounds when CO levels are elevated

Reasons To Buy This

  • Simple operation
  • Quick fitting
  • Good design and size
  • Works well

Kidde KN-COPP-3 Nighthawk Carbon Monoxide Alarm

This carbon monoxide alarm is what will keep you, your family and other occupants safe from CO poisoning. The reasonably small unit is lightweight and can be placed in different locations with ease. It displays the readings in digital form via the well-sized screen and has an easy-to-operate button. The unit is plugged into a 120V Ace power outlet but has a 9V DC battery backup just in case there is a power interruption or outage. I love the unit’s memory keeping that records earlier detections. This can help you detect a recurring problem, for instance, a leaking flue, damaged chimney, generators, and more.

Amazon Best Seller
Kidde Carbon Monoxide Detector, Plug In Wall with 9-Volt Battery Backup, Digital LED Display
  • Easy Installation - simply plug-in to a standard, 120V outlet in your home
  • 9-volt battery backup provides protection during a power outage
  • Digital LED display shows the level of carbon monoxide the CO alarm is sensing
  • 85-decibel alarm announces when carbon monoxide is detected
  • Peak Level Memory records the last time carbon monoxide was detected or when the unit was last tested
  • Test-Hush Button makes testing the detector or silencing false alarms easy
  • Extension cord (included) allows for placement on a table or shelf
  • UL Certified, 10-year limited manufacturer warranty

Reasons To Buy This

  • Simple design
  • Easy to read
  • Works well
  • Good quality and price
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First Alert CO615 Dual-Power Carbon Monoxide Detectors With Digital Display

I have fitted this detector in my workshop, and I know it works as well as the company and consumers claim. It had gone off severally when I left the car running for too long while in the garage which is next to the workshop. The unit also sensed the gas after the space heater developed some problems and started redirecting the fumes towards the workshop. The unit is very versatile and can be fitted in different places with ease. In fact, a complete novice will manage to do it using ordinary tools. The device can run via a battery or plug into the mains. It has a bright display for showing the readings and is easy to operate.

First Alert CO615 Dual-Power Plug-In Carbon Monoxide Detector with Battery Backup and Digital Display, White
  • Keep your family safe with this digital display, plug in carbon monoxide alarm; It works with any standard outlet and also has a battery backup for continuous monitoring of Carbon Monoxide levels, even if there's a power failure
  • Features an advanced electrochemical carbon monoxide sensor; Peak level feature displays the highest concentration of carbon monoxide measured
  • A loud 85 decibel alarm sounds when Carbon Monoxide levels reach dangerous levels
  • To ensure complete protection make sure to place one on each level of your home and in each bedroom
  • 7 year limited warranty; Equipped with end of life signal chirp, so you know when it’s time to replace the unit for safety
  • All first alert CO alarms are rigorously tested to meet UL standards
  • First Alert has been the most trusted brand in home safety since launching the first residential smoke alarm in 1958 (Based on a First Alert Brand Trust Survey in February 2018)

Reasons To Buy This

  • Dual powered
  • Quick installation
  • Very sensitive
  • Good display

Kidde Battery-Operated Carbon Monoxide Detectors And Alarm With Digital Display

I helped my neighbor install this unit in his home several months ago. And to test if the unit actually worked, he directed exhausts fumes to the unit using a long hose. True to the manufacturer and seller’s claim, it did pick up the CO, and the alarm went off. I loved the nice display that indicated the presence and volume of the gas. I love the user-friendly interface that is easy to read and the audible alarm that can be heard from a distance. The battery-operated unit can last for a long time before requiring new batteries. It comes in a small size, and you can fit it with or in many places easily.

Kidde Carbon Monoxide Detector, AA Battery Powered CO Alarm with LEDs, Test-Reset Button, Low Battery Indicator, Portable
14,078 Reviews
Kidde Carbon Monoxide Detector, AA Battery Powered CO Alarm with LEDs, Test-Reset Button, Low Battery Indicator, Portable
  • Electrochemical sensor technology detects CO gas
  • Easy installation, no wiring needed, detects during a power failure by operating on 2-AA batteries (included)
  • Conveniently designed & portable: simple to install on a wall of your home or place on a tabletop
  • Green LED indicates power to the smoke detector, while an 85-decibel alarm & a red LED indicates the presence of carbon monoxide
  • Peak Level Memory records the last time carbon monoxide was detected or when the unit was last tested
  • Test-Hush button makes it easy to test the carbon monoxide detector or temporarily silence the low battery chirp warning
  • UL Certified, 10-year limited manufacturer warranty

Reasons To Buy This

  • Small and lightweight
  • Easy to install
  • Good detection capability
  • Easy-to-read display
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Delling Digital Carbon Monoxide Detector And Alarm, White

This alarm and detector from the Delling brand should find its way into your home. This comes at a time here, cases of carom monoxide poisoning are on the rise. The white-colored gadget is also suitable for the office, business premises, dorm room and other places. It’s made of tough material to withstand the exposure to the environment, gases or poor handling. It installs fairly easy and fast and should be up and run in a matter of minutes. The device has an LCD display for easy reading, an alarm clock warning, and Led lights that flash red when carbon monoxide is detected. Additionally, you get a loud alarm (85 decibels) that sounds at different intervals. It runs on 3, 1.5V AA.

First Alert SCO501CN-3ST Wireless Interconnected Combination Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm with Voice Location, Battery Operated
  • Battery operated smoke and carbon monoxide alarm can be installed easily
  • Connects multiple alarms together for wireless safety network
  • Voice alarm gives clear indication of where the problem is located
  • Features photoelectric smoke sensor and electrochemical CO sensor
  • One button silences a false alarm and tests the unit. Loud 85 decibel alarm
  • NOTE: Kindly refer to the user manual provided as a PDF manual in the product description section
  • First Alert has been the most trusted brand in home safety since launching the first residential smoke alarm in 1958 (Based on a First Alert Brand Trust Survey in February 2018)

Reasons To Buy This

  • Unique design and good precision
  • High consistency and sensitive
  • Stable and portable
  • Easy installation

Nest Protect Carbon Monoxide And Smoke Detector Alarm

Purchasing this unit was one of the best moves I’ve ever made in life. There are so many reasons why this product is the best carbon monoxide detector. First of all, barely two weeks after installation, was it able to detect the presence of carbon monoxide in my home. The alarm went off to notify me. A closer inspection revealed that my aging chimney and flue had miniature cracks that let in some carbon monoxide instead of allowing it to escape. I was told by the repairman that this wasn’t a new crack but had been increasing over time. The previous detector had failed to detect the CO and is lucky that no one had been poisoned by the gas. Fitting the unit took men a few minutes, and I loved the simple design and clear instructions.

Amazon Best Seller
Google Nest Protect - Smoke Alarm - Smoke Detector and Carbon Monoxide Detector - Battery Operated , White - S3000BWES
11,268 Reviews
Google Nest Protect - Smoke Alarm - Smoke Detector and Carbon Monoxide Detector - Battery Operated , White - S3000BWES
  • Smoke detector and carbon monoxide detector that speaks up in a friendly voice to give you an early warning when there's smoke or CO in your home
  • Split Spectrum Sensor looks for both fast burning and smoldering, and tells you where the danger is
  • Get phone alerts so you know something's wrong even when you're away from home[1]
  • CO detector looks out for carbon monoxide and tells you where it's located
  • With App Silence you can silence the smoke alarm with your phone in the Nest app when there's only a little smoke
  • No chirps to tell you the battery is low; Nest Protect tests its own batteries and gives you a Nightly Promise when you turn off the lights so you know everything is working
  • A Light in the Dark: Usually Nest Protect has its light turned off but when you walk underneath it Pathlight can light your way.
  • The Nest smoke and carbon monoxide alarm has sensors with a 10-year lifespan to help keep your family safe for up to a decade
  • With Safety Check you can test all your smoke and CO alarms with just a tap and get a full report once the test is done
  • Know from anywhere. Connect Nest Protect to Wi-Fi and it will send an alert to your phone if the alarm goes off or the batteries run low.

Reasons To Buy This

  • Easy to understand
  • Audible alerts
  • Accurate and precise
  • Very effective and versatile

The Installation Of Carbon Monoxide

It’s important that you have installed the detector properly. Failure to do so may affect the functionality and precision of the unit. If you aren’t very conversant with the device or aren’t confident about the installation, you should seek help from an expert. The below YouTube video should help you with the installation.

How do carbon monoxide detectors work?

Carbon monoxide detectors sound an alarm when they sense a certain amount of carbon monoxide in the air over time. Different sensors set off different types of alerts.

  • Biomimetic sensor – a gel changes color when it absorbs carbon monoxide, and this color change triggers the alarm.
  • Metal oxide semiconductor – When the silica chip’s circuitry detects carbon monoxide, it lowers the electrical resistance, and this change triggers the alarm.
  • Electrochemical sensor – Electrodes immersed in a chemical solution sense changes in electrical currents when they come into contact with carbon monoxide, and this change triggers the alarm.

Once the alarm sounds, the carbon monoxide detector must be in a carbon monoxide-free environment to reset itself.

10 Steps to Prevent CO Poisoning

OSHA and the CDC say that CO poisoning can be prevented if you follow these steps:

  • Install battery-powered CO detectors on every floor of your home.
  • Change the batteries every 6 months.
  • Schedule a qualified technician to annually service your heating system, water heater, and any other gas, oil, or coal-burning home devices.
  • Keep air vents and flues free of debris that can block ventilation lines.
  • Never run a generator, or any gasoline-powered engine inside your home, garage or basement, even if the windows and doors are open.
  • Never run a generator, motor vehicle, pressure washer, or any gasoline-powered engine, even if outdoors, if it’s less than 20 feet from an open window, door, or vent. Exhaust can enter into your home.
  • Never use an oil lantern, charcoal grill, hibachi, or portable camping stove inside your home, camper or tent.
  • Use tools and heating appliances powered by electricity or compressed air instead.
  • Never leave your vehicle’s motor running in the garage or any partially enclosed space.
  • If you suspect CO poisoning, call 911 and go outside for fresh air while you wait.

How can I prevent carbon monoxide poisoning?

Carbon monoxide poisoning is a serious risk, but fortunately, it’s very preventable. In addition to installing sensors throughout your home, here are a few tips for avoiding a dangerous situation.

  • Never heat your home with a gas range – Gas stoves produce carbon monoxide and can fill your home with the dangerous gas.
  • Don’t run your car in the garage – If you want to warm up your vehicle in the winter, pull out of the garage first. Carbon monoxide is a common byproduct of vehicle exhaust, and it can build up quickly in a closed (and open) garage.
  • Always have proper ventilation – Running your generator, pressure washer, or any gas-powered engines in an enclosed area like a basement or garage without adequate ventilation can be extremely dangerous.
  • Always cook safely while camping – You should enjoy the wilderness safely. Don’t use a charcoal grill, hibachi, or camping stove inside your home, tent, or camper.
  • Install a carbon monoxide detector – The best carbon monoxide detectors are affordable, easy to install, and can save your life. We recommend installing one on every level of your home, near each bedroom, and near your garage

Final Word

After looking at the above statistics and learning about carbon monoxide, you are certainly worried if you haven’t installed a CO detector. As you have seen, the cases of deaths have risen globally. This may be attributed to rising use of heating devices and fuels that emit poisonous gas. The most worrying thing is that the gas is odorless, tasteless, and colorless. You may even be inhaling it now as we speak.

The good news though, is that you, your family and other people in your home or even office can stay safe. You only need to install the right CO detector to alert you of any presence of the gas. We have picked the best carbon monoxide detectors and alarms in 2019 that guarantees you the best service and improved safety.

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